British bases in Cyprus prepare for bird poaching season

The British Bases Police in Cyprus have announced their full readiness for the upcoming migration period of blackcaps, locally known as Ambelopoulia, which begins at the end of August. Authorities have reaffirmed a strict zero-tolerance policy against illegal trapping, employing the Community Action Team (CAT) to conduct surveillance and enforcement operations within the Eastern Sovereign Base Areas.

Led by Sergeant Yiannakis Louca, the CAT is already actively patrolling the region to identify and dismantle trapping installations, including mist nets and lethal lime sticks used by poachers. The operation relies on advanced technology, such as drones and license plate recognition systems, alongside established partnerships with the Cyprus Police anti-poaching unit, the Game and Fauna Service, and various environmental organizations. Officials emphasized that the objective is to maintain illegal activity at near-zero levels throughout the migration season.

Looking ahead, the authorities have made it clear that their response to any detected poaching will be immediate and decisive. Any individuals found involved in the illegal trapping of migratory birds will be identified, arrested, and prosecuted to the full extent of the law as part of an ongoing effort to preserve wildlife within the territory.