Sandanski authorities search for bear spotted near local zoo

Authorities in Sandanski, Bulgaria, are continuing the search for a bear spotted near the local zoo on October 16. Despite patrols conducted within a one-kilometer radius of the sighting near urbanized areas, the animal has not yet been located, and no new visible tracks have been found.

The Sandanski Municipality has issued a warning advising residents and visitors to temporarily avoid walking in the affected region. Local environmental and forestry agencies, along with the Ministry of Interior, have been notified and are participating in the search efforts.

Officials have provided safety guidelines for any potential encounters, instructing people not to run, shout, or make sudden movements. Citizens are urged to report sightings to the 112 emergency number from a safe distance and are advised to keep children close or carry them to avoid any danger.