Tensions in Avlona buffer zone over dead livestock

Tensions have persisted in the United Nations-controlled buffer zone near Avlona for the past 48 hours following the discovery of a dead cow. Menelaos Savva, the local community leader, reported finding the carcass on Saturday evening and alerted police, UN forces, and the Ministry of Foreign Affairs. Surveillance footage from peacekeepers confirmed that a Turkish settler farmer had transported the cow into the buffer zone using machinery. The carcass poses sanitary risks, including odor and potential disease transmission.

Christodoulos Pipis, Director of Veterinary Services, confirmed that the animal belongs to a Turkish settler who maintains a farm within the area. While there is no official information regarding whether the cow died from foot-and-mouth disease, the incident has raised significant concerns. The issue is being managed through the bicommunal health committee. Authorities stated that the settler is expected to retrieve the carcass later today. This incident echoes similar events from five years ago when the same individual reportedly left two other dead cows in the neutral zone. Investigations are ongoing, and the situation remains under monitoring by both the UN and Cypriot officials.