Three arrested in Paphos following the shooting of a cat

Police in Paphos have arrested three individuals—two 18-year-olds and a 16-year-old—in connection with the fatal shooting of a cat. The incident was reported on October 4, 2026, by a 56-year-old man who found his pet dead near his home. A subsequent post-mortem examination revealed the animal had been struck by 13 firearm pellets. Investigations led by the Paphos CID and the animal police unit utilized CCTV footage of a vehicle linked to a deceased relative of one of the suspects to identify the individuals involved.

The authorities are investigating several charges, including illegal possession and transportation of a firearm and explosives, discharging a weapon in a residential area, and conspiracy to commit misdemeanours and felonies. One of the suspects is a soldier serving in the National Guard. The Paphos District Court has remanded the first 18-year-old suspect in custody for four days, while the other two suspects were ordered to be held for two days to facilitate ongoing investigations. The case has sparked public outcry, with the Animal Party of Cyprus calling for stricter regulations on gun ownership and storage to prevent future acts of cruelty.