Lesvos livestock management under investigation by prosecutor

The Pallesvian Primary Sector Association has filed an official complaint with the Mytilene Prosecutor's Office, requesting an urgent investigation into the management of African Swine Fever on Lesvos.

The complaint specifically focuses on two goat and sheep farms in Vafio, Mitylene. According to the association, laboratory confirmation of the disease was received on August 25, 2026, and a subsequent decision was made by the Veterinary Directorate of Lesvos to cull all sensitive species on-site. However, the association alleges that the animals remained alive at the farms for approximately one month following the laboratory confirmation.

In addition to the delay in culling, the association is seeking clarification on whether livestock owners were legally notified of the decision. There are also concerns regarding administrative irregularities, as the association claims that the date and protocol number fields on a copy of the decision were left blank, despite electronic metadata allegedly containing this information. The association stated it is not assigning direct criminal responsibility but is seeking judicial clarity to ensure transparency and biosecurity for the island's livestock sector.