CYPRUS: ENOUGH IS ENOUGH!

END THE SHOOTINGS AND POISONINGS OF ANIMALS — WE DEMAND IMMEDIATE ACTION NOW

To: The Chief of Police of Cyprus, the Minister of Justice and Public Order, and all Members of the House of Representatives.

How many more animals must die before meaningful action is taken?

Since the beginning of 2026, more than 30 reports of alleged animal shootings and poisonings have been publicly shared on social media across Cyprus. 

The continued emergence of such reports highlights the urgent need for a systematic approach to recording, assessing and investigating every incident. The public deserves to know how many cases have been formally reported, how many have been investigated, and what action has been taken.

Shooting animals is not merely an animal-welfare issue. When firearms are discharged in or near residential areas, it can also pose a serious threat to public safety. Poisoning animals can endanger other animals, wildlife and potentially people, particularly children.

Public outrage and social-media posts cannot substitute for effective law enforcement. Nor can the authorities wait for the next animal to be found dead before taking action.

WE DEMAND IMMEDIATE AND MEASURABLE ACTION

1. Effective investigation of every reported incident

Every report of an alleged shooting or poisoning must be properly assessed and, where there is sufficient basis, investigated promptly. This includes collecting and examining veterinary findings, photographs, videos, witness statements and other available evidence. Where the evidence supports it, those responsible must be prosecuted in accordance with the law.

2. Proper scrutiny of firearm possession and use

Where an incident involves a firearm, the authorities must investigate whether its possession and use were lawful, whether applicable licensing conditions were respected, and whether further action is required under firearms legislation. The suitability of licence holders and compliance with safe-storage requirements must be assessed where legally relevant.

3. Targeted prevention in areas experiencing repeated incidents

Where reports of shootings or poisonings recur, the Police and relevant authorities must assess the pattern and take appropriate preventive measures. Repeated reports from the same area must not be treated as isolated events without examining whether they may be connected.

4. A centralised national record of reported incidents

Cyprus needs a systematic record and geographical mapping of publicly reported and officially reported animal shootings and poisonings. The record must clearly distinguish between:

- Reports shared publicly on social media;

- Complaints or reports formally submitted to the authorities;

- Incidents verified through investigation;

- Cases referred for prosecution; and

- Proven offences and their outcomes.

This would enable the authorities to identify patterns, allocate resources and evaluate whether their response is effective.

5. Effective cooperation between authorities

The Animal Control Police, district police, Veterinary Services and other relevant authorities must have clear procedures for cooperation, evidence collection, referrals and follow-up. Responsibilities must be defined so that cases are not delayed, overlooked or lost between departments.

6. Accessible electronic reporting and case tracking

Citizens must have access to a clear and practical electronic reporting mechanism for suspected animal shootings and poisonings. It should allow relevant information to be submitted, including the location, date, photographs and videos, and provide a reference number and information on the competent authority handling the report. Anonymous reporting should be available where legally permitted.

7. Transparency and publication of statistics

The Police and competent authorities must publish available statistics on reports received, formal complaints, investigations, prosecutions and case outcomes. The information should distinguish allegations from verified incidents and proven offences, while respecting personal-data requirements and the confidentiality of active investigations.

8. Immediate parliamentary intervention

We call on Members of the House of Representatives to request an urgent discussion by the competent parliamentary committee. The responsible authorities must be called upon to explain the current procedures, the obstacles to effective enforcement, the number of cases handled and the measures required to address recurring incidents.

Parliament must demand a concrete action plan with clear responsibilities, measurable objectives and deadlines.

9. Accountability and follow-up

The Chief of Police and the responsible authorities must provide a clear account of the measures being taken to prevent, investigate and prosecute these offences. Parliament must monitor implementation rather than allow the matter to disappear from the public agenda until another animal is killed.

WE DEMAND ANSWERS. WE DEMAND ACTION. WE DEMAND ACCOUNTABILITY.

We are not asking for special treatment for animals. We are demanding enforcement of the law.

We are not asking for unfounded accusations. We are demanding serious, evidence-based investigations.

We are not asking for more vague assurances. We are demanding concrete measures, measurable results and accountability.

Every publicly reported incident deserves proper assessment. Every suspected offence must be handled according to the law. Every competent authority must fulfil its responsibilities.

We call on the Chief of Police, the Minister of Justice and Public Order, and every Member of Parliament to act now.

Sign this petition and demand that animal shootings and poisonings in Cyprus are treated with the seriousness they deserve.

No more silence. No more indifference. No more waiting until the next animal is found dead.

CYPRUS MUST ACT — NOW.