Investigation launched into fatal shooting of a cat in Paphos

On October 4, 2026, a 56-year-old resident of Paphos reported to the police that his cat had been found dead near his home. Following a necropsy performed on the animal, experts discovered 13 firearm pellets, confirming the cat was killed by gunfire.

The Paphos Criminal Investigation Department (TAE) has launched a formal investigation into charges of animal killing, conspiracy to commit a felony and misdemeanor, illegal possession and transport of a firearm and explosives, and discharging a weapon in a residential area. Authorities obtained a court warrant and arrested an 18-year-old suspect, whose residence was searched, resulting in the seizure of several pieces of evidence.

The case has drawn significant attention due to the brutality of the act. The Paphos TAE is continuing its investigations to determine the full circumstances of the incident, and further legal proceedings are expected to follow as the evidence gathered during the house search is processed.