The British Bases Police (BB) has launched Operation “Hunter,” a coordinated initiative aimed at supporting lawful and responsible hunting, which will be in effect from August 23 through February 28 of next year.
According to a statement from the BB, the operation aims to prevent and investigate incidents of poaching, illegal training of hunting dogs, and other related offenses within the bases, in close cooperation with the BB’s Environment Department, the Game and Wildlife Service of the Republic of Cyprus, and the Cyprus Police.
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With the hunting season now underway, the Dekelia Police Station has issued a public announcement, highlighting the risks and potential penalties for violating the relevant legislation.
Particular emphasis is placed on the illegal trapping of wild birds, as well as on the prohibited training of hunting dogs in areas where such activity is not permitted.
During the hunting season, police officers will conduct targeted patrols and operations based on intelligence. Technology will also be utilized to support policing and law enforcement efforts, including unmanned aerial vehicles (drones), surveillance equipment, body-worn cameras, and the Automatic Number Plate Recognition (ANPR) system.
The BB Police remind hunters of their legal obligations, including holding the required permits, as well as complying with the designated dates and areas where hunting is permitted.
As noted, special attention must be paid to public safety, the protection of wildlife, and the prevention of damage to private property.
According to the announcement, Senior Sergeant Antonis Dimitriou, Head of Operations for the Akrotiri Police, stated that they will take a strict approach to poaching, the illegal training of hunting dogs, and any activity that endangers the public, wildlife, or property.
“We urge members of the public to report any suspicious activity related to hunting, including shooting in prohibited areas, the use of vehicles to chase wild animals, the illegal training of hunting dogs, or incidents where poaching is suspected,” said Mr. Dimitriou.
He noted that all reports will be evaluated and handled appropriately, based on the available information and the level of risk identified.
