**Hunters Fined €6,180 for Illegal Hunting in Paphos**
Two hunters from Nicosia have been penalized a total of €6,180 after being apprehended for illegal hunting activities in the village of Miliou, located in the Paphos district. The incident occurred on Sunday, when officers from the Game and Fauna Service discovered the individuals engaged in hunting within a restricted area.
The enforcement officers first encountered the hunters early in the morning and later found them again in the same area later that afternoon. During the second encounter, one of the hunters was found in possession of ten wood pigeons, which he had hunted illegally.
As a result of their actions, each hunter was fined €2,000 for violating regulations by hunting in a restricted area. Additionally, they faced a further fine of €1,000 each for the illegal transportation of rifles. The hunter carrying the wood pigeons received an extra penalty of €180, as the law imposes a €20 fine for each bird beyond the first.
Authorities have indicated that monitoring efforts will persist throughout the hunting season to ensure compliance with wildlife protection laws. The Game and Fauna Service aims to deter illegal hunting practices and safeguard local fauna.
This incident highlights the ongoing challenges faced by wildlife enforcement agencies in managing hunting activities and preserving ecological balance in the region.