Police in northern Japan are questioning a zoo employee who allegedly admitted to disposing of his wife's body in the facility's incinerator, local media reported. The disturbing revelation has led the Asahiyama Zoo in the city of Asahikawa, Hokkaido, to delay its summer opening as police continue their investigation.
Employee's Alleged Confession
The employee, identified as a man in his 30s, told police last Thursday he “disposed of the body in the zoo’s incinerator and burned it for several hours,” according to The Japan Times, citing a report from Hokkaido Television Broadcasting. Authorities had been searching for the woman after a friend reported her disappearance to police last week, stating they had been unable to contact her since late March.
The apparent confession prompted police to search the zoo grounds last Friday and the man’s home on Sunday. A zoo car, which investigators believe might have been used to dispose of the body, was among three vehicles seized by police. Police have yet to announce what charges they intend to file against the man.
Zoo Opening Delayed
The popular city-run zoo, which had been closed since April 8 as it prepared for the busy summer season, was scheduled to reopen Wednesday in time for its annual Golden Week holiday. Zoo officials announced on Monday that the reopening has been pushed back to Friday due to the police investigation.
“We regret to inform you that a city employee is currently being questioned by the police in connection with a serious incident,” Asahiyama Zoo said on its website. “We sincerely apologize for the worry and inconvenience this has caused everyone,” it added.
City officials said the delayed opening would also allow staff at the zoo to receive mental health support and provide the facility with time to review its security systems, The Asahi Shimbun reported.
Mayor's Response
At a news conference on Tuesday, Asahikawa Mayor Hirosuke Imazu called the delayed opening “a painful decision” and apologized for the “great inconvenience.” He also said the zoo had received “many encouraging messages” from citizens and fans nationwide, which he said has been “a great source of strength for the zoo and its staff.”
The zoo, which opened in 1967 and is famous for its “behavioural exhibits” that enable visitors to observe animals up close, attracted 1.33 million visitors in its last fiscal year.
