EditCyprus’s feline crisis: police investigate suspected organised cat theft ring
Widespread complaints have surfaced in major cities where both privately owned pets and community strays have vanished from yards, parks and public spaces
Cyprus, long celebrated as the “island of cats,” is facing an alarming surge in reports of missing felines. Widespread complaints have surfaced in major cities including Nicosia (notably Latsia), Limassol, and Larnaca, where both privately owned pets and community strays – particularly sterilised and tame ones identifiable by ear notches or tips – have vanished from yards, parks, feeding areas, and public spaces like supermarket car parks.
The Cat Protection and Welfare Association has taken a leading role, compiling eyewitness accounts, social media posts, photographs, vehicle registration numbers, and other evidence before submitting it to police. Association president Dinos Agiomamitis described the scale as unprecedented: while similar incidents occurred years ago, “not on such a large scale as today.” He suspects an organised ring is behind the abductions, targeting sterilised and domesticated cats to cut costs on overseas procedures and ensure appeal as adoptable pets.
Agiomamitis highlighted legal protections under Cyprus’s Animal Protection and Welfare Law: no one may indiscriminately capture and remove cats from public locations unless transferring them to a recognised shelter. Relocated animals often try to return home, facing dangers like traffic, dogs, or poisoning. He expressed particular concern over a potential export attempt via a flight on 27 February and noted high profits in the illicit trade – cats reportedly fetching €400–€500 abroad. Motives extend beyond adoption to darker possibilities, including demand for fur in certain markets or even use in scientific experiments.
In one high-profile case in Latsia, volunteers who had long cared for a colony of sterilised cats in a supermarket car park reported their sudden disappearance. Eyewitnesses described a woman trapping the animals and loading them into her vehicle. When questioned, she claimed veterinary treatment but provided no verifiable details and later backtracked. Public pressure prompted police to review CCTV footage, identify a suspect, and request a statement – though critics, including animal welfare advocates, have decried initial delays and the under-resourced Animal Police unit (just 15 officers island-wide).Police confirmed the cases remain under active investigation. On Monday, the association urged Veterinary Services to halt all cat export licences pending resolution, but the request was denied without a court order. The matter is set for discussion at the House Environment Committee on Wednesday, with key authorities expected to attend.
The developments have sparked broader outrage over animal welfare enforcement in Cyprus, where stray cat populations are both cherished and challenging to manage. As investigations deepen, many hope for swift action to protect these beloved animals and dismantle any criminal networks exploiting them.
The Mediterranean nation is home to a distinctive landrace known as the Cyprus cat (also called the Cypriot cat, Aphrodite Giant, or Saint Helen cat). These athletic, energetic cats – often with robust builds, varied coat patterns, and a storied history tracing back to ancient seafaring introductions from Egypt, Palestine, or Phoenician times – thrive in the island’s warm climate. Stray and semi-feral populations have flourished for centuries with minimal outside influence, becoming an iconic part of Cypriot life, from village streets to tourist spots. Cypriots and visitors alike adore these independent, sun-loving animals, which symbolise the island’s relaxed charm.
The original article with Politis can be found here.
Caption: The Mediterranean nation is home to a distinctive landrace known as the Cyprus cat. [Politis]
Updated: February 17, 2026 - 07:45
