Police arrest 18-year-old in Paphos for killing a cat with a firearm

Police in Paphos, Cyprus, arrested an 18-year-old male on Monday, October 5, 2026, in connection with the killing of a domestic cat. The investigation began on Sunday, October 4, after a 56-year-old resident reported finding his pet dead near his home. Subsequent examination by the Animal Welfare Unit and the Paphos Central Police Station confirmed the animal had been killed by gunfire.

A necropsy performed on the cat revealed 13 firearm pellets embedded in its body. Following this discovery, authorities secured a judicial arrest warrant for the suspect. During a follow-up search of the suspect's residence, officers recovered and seized several pieces of evidence.

The Paphos Criminal Investigation Department (TAE) is currently investigating the case, which involves multiple serious charges beyond the killing of an animal. These include conspiracy to commit a misdemeanor and a felony, illegal possession and transport of a firearm and explosives, and discharging a weapon in a residential area. The investigation remains ongoing as authorities process the seized items and determine the next steps in the legal proceedings.