Wild bear roams in Jambi villages

JAMBI, Jambi: A bear was recently sighted in the Kerinci regency of Jambi province, frightening residents from five villages in the area.

The large, black bear was reportedly seen roaming amid a group of houses between Pendung Tengah Penawar village in the Sitinjau district and Kemantan Hilir village in the Air Hangat Timur district.

Residents of three other villages were startled by the uncommon sight, including those in Pendung Hilir, Tanjung Mudo and Betung Kuning.

Haryadi, a resident of Pendung Tengah Penawar village, said he saw the bear crossing a rice field near his home.

"The residents around here and I are very afraid the bear is still roaming around," he added.

Since the incident, parents in affected areas have told their children to remain indoors.

Head of Kerinci Seblat National Park Suyatno Sukandar could not be reached for comment. -- JP