Yeroskipou, Cyprus. Trade union Isotita denounced an attack on a Game Fund warden after his personal vehicle was set on fire and destroyed, warning that wardens are being targeted by organised crime. The incident occurred in an open area in Yeroskipou, in Paphos.
Incident details
Isotita said “criminal elements” set the warden’s personal vehicle on fire, completely destroying it. The vehicle belonged to a 46-year-old and was parked in an open area when it was set alight at around 3.40am on Monday, causing extensive damage.
Union warning and allegations
The union said tolerating violence against people who protect the natural wealth of the country is tantamount to complicity in the repetition of such crimes. It described the situation as an “undeclared war that rages uncontrollably”.
Isotita said frontline workers are trapped between “ruthless criminal circles” and “Trojan horses” within the service who, it alleged, inform the underground world and leave staff exposed.
Safety requests and criticism of administration
The union said authorities have been informed, but complaints and requests relating to safety and health have been pending since 2019. It said the Game Fund is “a ship that is taking on water from everywhere and is being driven to the rocks” due to irresponsibility, carelessness and criminal obstruction, and accused the administration of focusing on schedule changes while ignoring core issues.
Calls for measures
Isotita called for immediate police training, the institutionalisation of carrying weapons on a 24-hour basis for self-defence, the establishment of an anti-poaching unit staffed by incorruptible officials, and the creation of operational protocols, which it said do not currently exist.
What measures do you think should be prioritised to improve the safety of Game Fund wardens?
