Newsroom
A cat found dead near its owner’s home in Paphos had 13 gunshot wounds, an autopsy revealed Monday, prompting a police investigation that also involves suspected illegal possession of a firearm and explosives.
The cat’s owner, a 56-year-old man, reported finding the animal a short distance from his home on Sunday, Oct. 4. Members of the police Animal Squad and Paphos Central Police Station visited the scene that day to examine the area.
The autopsy carried out the following day established the extent of the animal’s injuries. Police have not said how many shots were fired.
An 18-year-old was arrested Monday under a warrant obtained during the investigation. Officers also searched his home, where they seized several items. Police have not disclosed what those items were.
Beyond the suspected killing of the cat, investigators are examining possible conspiracy offenses, illegal possession and transportation of a firearm and explosives, and shooting in a residential area.
That last allegation brings the case beyond animal cruelty: police are also investigating the suspected use of a weapon in an area where people live.
The investigation is continuing.
