Possible Mass Killing of Dogs at Private Shelter Investigated in Paphos

Paphos Municipal Councilor Kyriakos Savva has made public an official complaint alleging that dozens of dogs were illegally euthanized at a private shelter in the district. Police confirmed that the case is already under investigation.

According to Savva, the incidents allegedly occurred at least five times — on January 27, and February 1, 7, 10, and 16, 2026. On February 16 alone, it is claimed that about 40 dogs were put down. One of the episodes, he said, had a witness.

The complaint was filed by a former shelter volunteer and sent to the police, the Office of the Commissioner for the Environment and Animal Welfare, and other competent authorities.

The councilor questions:

• whether the animals were truly terminally ill or dangerous, as required by law,
• whether the procedures were performed by a registered veterinarian,
• whether established protocols were followed.

Specific questions are raised by the fact that the shelter positions itself as "no-kill," and part of the alleged euthanasias reportedly took place outside of working hours.

Paphos police confirmed that the investigation is being conducted by the specialized Animal Welfare Unit.

Savva called for a full criminal probe and demanded transparent answers from veterinary services. At the same time, he emphasized that the animals still need help and asked the public not to stop supporting the shelter.