The Ecologists’ Movement has reported serious incidents of mass cat poisonings in the area of the Chlorakas Cemetery.
In a statement, the Movement states that the first incident—according to a citizen’s report—was recorded on October 20, 2026, when a kitten was found in a semi-conscious state in the yard of a residence.
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“The animal was immediately taken to a veterinarian, where it remained for treatment, but unfortunately died the next day. According to the information the complainant received from the veterinarian, the kitten had been poisoned by a toxic substance, likely rat poison.”
Meanwhile, in a statement, the Ecologists emphasize that the situation, “according to the information we have before us, is particularly alarming. So far, 12 dead cats have been found, while dozens more are still missing. According to the complainant’s estimates, approximately 40 cats may have died, as many animals disappeared without their bodies being found.”
As reported by the Ecologists, the woman contacted 112 on October 21, asked to speak with the Paphos Animal Police, and reported this serious incident.
“It has not been verified whether the person she spoke with was actually a member of the Animal Police. However, according to the complainant, the response she received was that, since she did not have any evidence, they could not take any action.”
The movement notes that this response reasonably raises serious questions.
“It is inconceivable that, in a case of possible mass animal poisoning, the lack of evidence would be used as a reason for the competent authorities not to intervene. On the contrary, the lack of evidence should be a reason for the immediate mobilization of the police and veterinary services to secure the necessary evidence.”
As they add, there is a relevant protocol for handling cases of animal poisoning, and a specific procedure is outlined. Their implementation is not optional. In such cases, the responsible officials must immediately proceed to the scene, investigate the area, locate and collect any potentially poisoned baits, the collection of dead animals in accordance with the necessary procedures for preserving evidence, as well as the performance of necropsies and toxicological tests, where appropriate, is added.
“Dead animals may constitute critical evidence. Their timely collection and scientific examination could help identify the toxic substance and solve the case. Delaying or failing to take such actions may result in the loss of valuable evidence.”
The complainant immediately posted warning notices in the area, informing residents of the danger of poisoned bait, the Greens add, while on October 21 she sent an urgent written complaint and a call for immediate intervention to various relevant agencies, including the Animal Police, the Veterinary Services, and the Chloraka Community Council. The recipients also included the Ecologists’ Movement – Citizens’ Cooperation.
In her letter, she requested an immediate investigation, on-site inspections, the removal of any potentially poisoned bait, increased surveillance, and protection for residents. As she reports, she received no response from the agencies she contacted.
In their desperation and in an effort to save whatever animals remained, local animal lovers were forced to take in as many cats as they could into their own homes to protect them from danger. Meanwhile, according to the Ecologists, an official written complaint was filed with the police on October 29, 2026.
The Movement is raising a series of questions and demanding answers:
- Why didn’t the Animal Police immediately go to the area as soon as they were first notified?
- Why were the established procedures for poisoning incidents not activated?
- Why weren’t the dead animals collected in a timely manner for necropsy and toxicological testing?
- Why were on-site inspections not conducted to locate and remove potentially poisoned baits? The possible presence of toxic substances poses a serious risk to public health, particularly for young children.
- What steps has the local authority taken in response to this serious incident that occurred in the community?
- Why has none of the relevant agencies responded to the urgent written complaint dated October 21?
“The Ecologists’ Movement – Citizens’ Cooperation makes it clear that it will no longer limit itself to mere letters, protests, and appeals to the relevant authorities. From now on, in any case where there are serious indications of negligence in the performance of duties, omissions, unjustified delays, or mishandling by officials responsible for the protection and welfare of animals will be formally and officially reported. The Movement will appeal to the Commissioner for Administration and the Protection of Human Rights, the relevant Minister, and the Chief of Police—where appropriate and where the matter falls within their jurisdiction—requesting an investigation into possible administrative omissions, mismanagement, or other potential misconduct,” he adds.
The Ecologists’ Movement – Citizens’ Cooperation, he adds, reiterates once again the urgent need to substantially strengthen the Animal Police by creating an independent, specialized, and adequately staffed unit with exclusive jurisdiction over cases involving abuse, neglect, poisoning, and, more generally, the protection of animals. Its members should be dedicated exclusively to this specific area, as performing other duties concurrently limits their ability to respond promptly, on-site investigation, and effective handling of complaints.
