Limassol, Cyprus. Veterinarians warned on Friday they may refuse to carry out foot and mouth disease sampling unless police protection is guaranteed, citing escalating threats and violent incidents in Limassol and Larnaca. Pancyprian Veterinary Association president Demetris Epaminondas said staff would no longer carry out testing without a police escort.
Association warning
Epaminondas said the situation had “spiralled out of control” and added, “We will not wait until we have victims.” He said the association was considering a full withdrawal from all foot and mouth related procedures if threats continue.
Reported incidents in Limassol
According to Epaminondas, a recent incident in Limassol involved individuals forcing their way into a livestock unit where the owner had agreed to sampling. He said they took sample bottles and told the veterinarians, “disappear from here if you value your lives,” before forcing them out of the unit.
In a second incident, Epaminondas said veterinary officers were prevented from leaving after their vehicle was boxed in by four pickup trucks. He said the individuals took the keys, seized the samples, and told the officers, “we will not let you leave here.”
Incident in Larnaca
Epaminondas referred to an incident in Larnaca two weeks earlier and said a suspect had been remanded in custody.
Conditions for continuing work
“If police do not accompany officers, we will do nothing,” Epaminondas said.
Do you think police escorts should be required for veterinarians conducting foot and mouth disease sampling?
