Bear reported escaped from Melios Zoo Park near Paleometocho

Authorities in Nicosia district issued an urgent public safety warning on October 10, 2026, following reports that a bear had escaped from Melios Zoo Park in the Paleometocho area. The Paleometocho Community Council initially advised residents to remain indoors, avoid approaching the animal, and keep children and pets secure, while local police were notified to investigate the potential threat to the public.

On October 11, police confirmed that the facility's owner had located and safely returned the animal to its enclosure. While police have declared that the situation is resolved and there is no longer a risk to public safety, the incident sparked significant backlash. Animal Party Cyprus has publicly demanded the immediate closure of the zoo. Notably, the facility's management denied that the animal ever left the premises, despite the police report confirming the escape and recovery operation. Investigations into the circumstances of the incident remain ongoing.