“Unfortunately, the fate of this bear was decided by that part of the public which, ignoring the warnings and recommendations of specialists, and endangering their own health and safety and that of their fellow citizens, brought the bear carrots, apples, and even crisps and sweets. The bear was a hostage to the situation. I am unpleasantly surprised that there were even people who deliberately provoked the bear into aggressive behaviour. And at the same time, I am very sad, because I know how much work my colleagues, non-governmental organisations, and other agencies and institutions put in to give the animal a chance to adapt to life in the wild. Unfortunately, short-term thinking leads a part of Latvian society to choose cheap popularity on social media, forgetting the fact that one must take responsibility for those we tame. A fed bear is a tamed bear! Yet none of those who fed it wish to, nor are they capable of, taking responsibility,” comments Gita Strode, Director of the Nature Conservation Department of the Nature Conservation Agency, on the situation harshly.
https://www.daba.gov.lv/lv/jaunums/brunais-lacis-cieta-no-kunga-culas-nepiemerotas-baribas-del