**Melios Zoo Files Complaint Against State Officers for Alleged Illegal Actions**
Melios Zoo and its owner, Menelaos ‘Melios’ Menelaou, have formally lodged a complaint with President Nikos Christodoulides, alleging a pattern of illegal behavior by state officers and services. The complaint, submitted on May 14 and made public on Wednesday, outlines claims of systematic misconduct that the zoo asserts has impacted its operations since its establishment in 2000.
According to the complaint filed by Melios Pet Centre Ltd, the zoo has been involved in various activities, including the buying, selling, breeding, and importing of animals, as well as operating a farm. The allegations presented in the complaint include serious accusations of "illegal and vengeful confiscation and killing of animals," forgery of official documents, and interference in commercial transactions with European partners.
A significant aspect of the complaint details retaliatory actions taken against the zoo following a prior complaint made against the agriculture ministry. The zoo claims that the Game Fund illegally confiscated and killed legally imported birds and 20 legally imported crocodiles without justification. Additionally, it alleges that animals were improperly trapped in transport cages, leading to the death of a jaguar, and that the transportation of three lion cubs was unlawfully obstructed.
In their letter to the President, the lawyers representing Melios Zoo have requested an immediate and thorough investigation into these allegations. They are calling for accountability for those involved and the lifting of all restrictions placed on the company, as well as the reissuance of necessary permits. The lawyers have also proposed the formation of an ad hoc committee to examine the situation, citing the seriousness of the case and the involvement of high-ranking state officials.
Melios Zoo, located in Ayioi Trimithias, Nicosia, has faced its share of challenges in recent years, including legal issues and controversies surrounding animal welfare. In April, a court ruling reaffirmed that the zoo was in breach of safety regulations and was operating without a valid permit. A previous court ruling had already established that the facility was in violation of the law. Menelaou had appealed this decision to the Supreme Constitutional Court, which upheld the earlier judgment against him. Most recently, on May 21, the appeals court ratified a ruling by the Nicosia district court, further complicating the zoo's legal standing.
The situation at Melios Zoo highlights ongoing tensions between private animal facilities and state regulations in Cyprus. As the complaint unfolds, it remains to be seen how the government will respond to the allegations and whether an independent investigation will be initiated as requested by Menelaou and his legal team. The outcome could have significant implications not only for Melios Zoo but also for the broader regulatory landscape governing animal welfare and business operations in the region.