Paphos, Cyprus. Police in Paphos are investigating allegations that multiple dogs were illegally killed at a private shelter following a formal complaint that triggered a criminal probe.
Complaint alleges multiple killings over several dates
The complaint, made public on Friday by municipal councillor Kyriakos Savvas, alleges that dogs were put down on five separate dates between January 27 and February 16, including a claim that 40 animals were killed in a single day.
One incident on February 1 is said to have been observed by an eyewitness.
Filing submitted by former volunteer to multiple bodies
The filing was submitted by a former volunteer to the police, the animal welfare commissioner’s office and political and organised bodies.
Questions raised about legality and procedures
Savvas said the case raises serious questions about whether the animals were genuinely incurable or dangerous as required by law, whether euthanasia was carried out by a registered veterinarian and whether mandatory procedures were followed.
He also questioned whether the public had been misled, citing the shelter’s portrayal as a “no kill” facility and reports that some alleged killings occurred outside working hours.
Police confirm case assigned to animal abuse unit
Police confirmed the investigation, with deputy police chief Michalis Nicolaou saying a complaint had been received and assigned to the force’s animal abuse unit.
“The case has been allocated for investigation,” he said.
Calls for inquiry, clarity and safeguards
Savvas called for an immediate, full criminal inquiry, public clarity from veterinary authorities and safeguards for animals still at the shelter.
He urged continued public support, saying donations should continue as “the animals depend on it,” while saying his intervention concerns transparency and accountability at leadership level.
What steps do you think authorities should take to ensure transparency and accountability in animal shelters?