Wednesday, September 6, 2023

ARREST OF MAN FOR TRAPPING AMPELOPOULIA

 Filenews 6 September 2023



A Greek Cypriot from Xylofagou faces a fine of up to €6,000 after he was arrested yesterday for possession of trapping nets and vine birds kept in the freezer of his home.

According to a statement, SBA officers raided the defendant's property during an early morning operation and managed to seize two nets measuring six meters by three meters, while releasing trapped birds before they were killed.

During a search of the man's home, which was located in the same plot as the nets, officers then discovered the freezer chamber with 23 vinebirds stored inside.

Speaking on the morning of the arrest, Dhekelia Assistant Police Director Panicos Panayi explained the possible punishment for this type of crime. "We as a police force apply a zero-tolerance approach to bird trapping and therefore, the fines for committing this crime reflect the seriousness of this illegality.

"The fines have increased enormously and in this case a fine of €2,000 for possession of nets and an additional €500 for each additional net can be imposed. " There is also the possibility of a fine of €2,000 for the possession of ampelous birds and an additional €100 for each bird, so hopefully these heavy fines are a strong deterrent for those considering trapping birds."

In an earlier operation on August 31, the Assistant Police Commissioner confirmed that a Greek Cypriot from Dasaki Achna had also been arrested for suspected poaching offences and possession of a firearm and cartridges in his vehicle. After police information gathered about the man, officers were able to locate his vehicle and secure a search warrant at his home, where a freezer contained 100 pigeons, four hares and ducks. Assistant Police Commissioner Panayi continued: "Hunting is only allowed at certain times and this man was arrested after being discovered with a firearm in his car outside the hunting area.