Bear escapes and is safely recovered from Melios Zoo in Nicosia

On October 10, 2026, a security alert was issued in the Nicosia district after a bear escaped its enclosure at the Melios Zoo Park, located between the communities of Agioi Trimithias and Paliometocho. Local authorities and the Community Council of Paliometocho urgently advised residents to avoid the area, keep children and pets secured, and not to approach or attempt to trap the animal. Police were notified, and the incident caused significant public concern.

The bear was subsequently located in close proximity to the facility by the park's owner and returned safely to its enclosure. While the Community Council and police reported the animal had escaped the zoo premises, Melios Zoo later issued a statement claiming the bear only exited its immediate living area and never left the zoo grounds. Police confirmed that the situation is resolved and no public danger remains.

This incident follows ongoing legal controversy regarding the facility. The Animal Party of Cyprus expressed strong condemnation, highlighting that the zoo has been operating without a valid permit since September 2017, as confirmed by an appellate court ruling on May 18, 2026. Authorities are continuing investigations into the incident and the facility's compliance.