Three suspects arrested after cat is shot to death in Paphos

Police in Paphos are investigating the killing of a cat that occurred on or around October 3, 2026. The case began on October 4, when a 56-year-old resident reported finding his pet dead near his home. A post-mortem examination performed on October 5 revealed that the animal had been struck by 13 firearm pellets. Investigating authorities utilized CCTV footage to identify a vehicle linked to the incident, which belongs to a deceased relative of the primary suspect.

Following the investigation by the Paphos Criminal Investigation Department (CID), authorities arrested three individuals: two 18-year-old men and one 16-year-old minor. One of the 18-year-olds, who serves in the National Guard, has been remanded in custody for four days by the Paphos District Court. The suspects face multiple charges, including the killing of an animal, conspiracy to commit a misdemeanour and a felony, illegal possession and transport of a firearm and explosives, and discharging a firearm in a residential area.

Authorities report that the firearm used in the crime belonged to a deceased relative of one of the suspects. The Animal Party Cyprus has publicly responded to the incident, calling for stricter enforcement of firearm regulations and improved safety checks. The investigation remains ongoing as police look into whether the suspects were involved in similar previous activities.