The Ecologists Movement – Citizens’ Cooperation has expressed anger and indignation following a new dog shooting in Pera Chorio Nisou, warning that the attacks appear to be part of a recurring pattern in the area.
In a statement, the movement’s Animal Action Group described the situation as “dangerous and uncontrolled,” posing a direct threat to both animals and the wider community.
According to the announcement, a female dog named Maili was shot on 22 April 2026. This follows an earlier incident on 10 April 2026 involving another dog, Rocky, in the same district. Rocky is currently recovering at a veterinary clinic and is expected to undergo surgery to remove a pellet.
The movement reported that while a formal complaint regarding Rocky’s shooting was lodged with the local police station, delays in processing the case and forwarding it to the Nicosia Animal Police “effectively allowed the criminal actions to continue.”
The statement further alleged that the owners of both Maili and Rocky attempted to contact the Nicosia Animal Police multiple times without success. The Ecologists claimed they have received numerous reports from citizens stating they cannot locate an officer from the specialised unit, and that the mobile phone number provided for public communication is reportedly switched off.
“It is unacceptable that citizens cannot communicate with the Animal Police. Complaints are multiplying and the image presented is that of a service that is completely absent,” the movement stated.
The Ecologists called on the authorities to act without further delay to identify and prosecute those responsible. They also demanded the immediate seizure of weapons from potential suspects if this has not yet been carried out.
The movement questioned whether the cases are linked, noting reports of two additional instances where dogs were allegedly shot in the same area. The statement concluded that the uncontrolled use of firearms is not only an animal welfare issue but a serious threat to human life, adding that “society will not tolerate further inaction.”