A significant operation by the Game and Fauna Service has resulted in the arrest of five individuals, including two employees from the Forestry Department, in the Paphos district. Authorities revealed a disturbing network of poaching activity, allegedly facilitated by those entrusted with protecting natural resources. These arrests occurred early Sunday morning, December 21st, after a thorough surveillance operation monitored suspicious behaviour.
The clandestine operation was initiated due to persistent reports of illegal gunfire and hunting in the Timi and Kouklia agricultural regions. Game wardens observed a suspicious vehicle around 4:30 am, and a pursuit began when the driver ignored signals to stop. The vehicle was eventually intercepted, leading to the apprehension of its three occupants shortly thereafter. A subsequent search uncovered two recently killed hares hidden amongst trees.
Evidence also suggested damage to local crops, indicating that hunting dogs might have been used to drive game from protected zones. The revelation that two arrested individuals are Forestry Department employees has raised serious concerns among conservation officials. Investigations are now underway to determine if these employees have systematically exploited their access and knowledge of restricted forest areas for illegal hunting.
This incident is not being treated as an isolated event. The Game and Fauna Service has expressed growing concern about what they describe as a "recurring phenomenon" of state employees involved in illicit hunting. The alleged modus operandi seems to involve leveraging positions of trust and authority for personal gain. Their access to ecologically sensitive areas, which require stringent protection, makes their alleged involvement particularly egregious.
The implications of these allegations are substantial, potentially undermining wildlife protection efforts and eroding public trust. The Game and Fauna Service has called for a reassessment of oversight for state personnel in ecologically vital regions. Investigations are ongoing to uncover the full scope of the poaching network and ensure all responsible parties face justice. The long-term ecological repercussions and the systemic breach of duty are of significant concern.