18-year-old arrested in Paphos for shooting a cat

Paphos police have arrested an 18-year-old man following the death of a cat, which was found killed by 13 firearm pellets. The incident was reported on Sunday, October 4, 2026, by a 56-year-old owner who discovered his pet deceased near his home. Animal welfare police and officers from the Paphos Central Police Station inspected the site, and a subsequent post-mortem examination confirmed that the animal had been struck by 13 pellets.

Authorities issued a warrant for the teenager, leading to his arrest on Monday, October 5. A search of the suspect's residence resulted in the seizure of several items currently being processed as evidence. The Paphos Criminal Investigation Department (CID) is leading the inquiry into multiple serious charges, including the killing of an animal, conspiracy to commit a felony and a misdemeanor, illegal possession and transport of a firearm and explosives, and discharging a weapon within a residential area.

The investigation remains active as authorities examine the evidence collected from the suspect's home to determine the full extent of the involvement and potential further legal actions against the individual. The case highlights ongoing concerns regarding animal cruelty and illegal firearm use in residential zones.