**Title: Two Arrested in Paphos Poaching Case Following Police Chase**
In a significant operation targeting wildlife crime, police in Paphos arrested two men, aged 23 and 21, late Friday night on suspicion of poaching. The arrests were made after officers from the anti-poaching unit, in collaboration with other police personnel, acted on intelligence regarding illegal hunting activities in the area.
The operation commenced around 11 PM when police observed a vehicle driving through a field. The driver was reportedly using the car to pursue a hare, prompting officers to initiate a stop for checks. However, the driver attempted to evade capture by accelerating away from the scene. After a brief pursuit, police successfully halted the vehicle and conducted a search of its three occupants: the two male suspects and a 19-year-old woman.
During the search of the vehicle, officers discovered 26 live cartridges intended for a double-barrelled shotgun, alongside three spent cartridges from both double-barrelled and single-barrelled shotguns. These findings raised immediate concerns regarding the legality of the occupants' activities.
Following the vehicle search, police executed further searches at the homes and premises of the two male suspects. These searches yielded a number of dead wild birds, which were seized as evidence of poaching. Additionally, officers found three plastic bags containing dark-coloured meat, the origin of which is currently under investigation to determine the species involved.
The searches also uncovered a variety of other items related to poaching activities, including a double-barrelled hunting shotgun, an iron trap believed to be used for trapping animals, and a makeshift system designed to play bird calls. Furthermore, police seized 15 one-litre containers of pesticide, two metal detectors, and an electric shock device, all of which may be linked to illegal hunting practices.
Two mobile phones belonging to the suspects were also confiscated for examination. Preliminary reports suggest that these devices contain photographs and videos that may provide additional evidence related to the poaching investigation.
While the 23-year-old and 21-year-old men have been arrested and remanded in custody pending further investigation, the 19-year-old woman was released after police found no evidence implicating her in the poaching activities.
The case is currently being handled by the Polis Chrysochous police station, where investigations are ongoing to gather more information and determine the full extent of the illegal activities involved.
Authorities have reiterated their commitment to combating wildlife crime and protecting Cyprus's natural heritage. The operation highlights the ongoing efforts of the police and environmental protection agencies to address poaching, which poses a significant threat to local wildlife and biodiversity.
As investigations continue, police are urging the public to report any suspicious activities related to wildlife and poaching, emphasizing the importance of community involvement in preserving the environment.