Paphos police arrest two men in poaching investigation

Police in the Paphos district have arrested two men, aged 21 and 23, following an investigation into illegal poaching. The operation began late at night when officers observed a vehicle driving through a field in an attempt to chase a hare.

During the initial stop, officers discovered 26 full shotgun cartridges and three used cartridges inside the vehicle. Three occupants—two males and a 19-year-old female—were detained for questioning. Subsequent searches of the suspects' residences and outbuildings led to the seizure of several items, including a shotgun, an iron animal trap, and a homemade device designed to mimic bird calls.

Authorities also confiscated a quantity of dead wild birds and three bags containing unidentified dark meat, the origin of which is currently under investigation. Other items seized include 15 containers of pesticides, two metal detectors, and mobile phones believed to contain photographic and video evidence related to poaching activities.