Small bear filmed roaming central Harjavalta overnight

Police in Harjavalta confirmed reports of a small bear roaming the town centre in the early hours of Sunday after reviewing footage provided by a member of the public.

The first sighting came near the fire station, followed by a second report placing the bear near Teollisuuskatu and Hiirikatu, in the heart of the town. Authorities said the bear was moving around shortly after midnight.

A police patrol was dispatched to secure the area and guide the young bear away from populated zones. The bear, estimated to be the size of a German shepherd, was moving independently, though its exact age could not be determined.

No further sightings were reported, and the situation posed no threat to the public. Police consulted the large carnivore damage prevention unit (SRVA), which in turn contacted the local wildlife management association’s predator liaison.

Authorities reminded the public not to approach bears under any circumstances. Even non-aggressive behaviour in urban areas should be reported to emergency services, as bears may wander into towns in search of food. Young bears in particular can act unpredictably.