Man charged in Rottie death in Limassol

Police are investigating the death of a Rottweiler days after she was found injured inside a trash can in Limassol, while a local man has been charged in connection with the case.

According to police, officers on Saturday found an injured female dog in a garbage bag that was tossed inside a trash can in Limassol. The discovery took place in the early afternoon around 1:45pm following information that law enforcement authorities had received.

The pet owner, described as a 39-year-old local resident, rushed his dog to the vet after he was identified and notified by authorities.

On Monday, the dog owner informed the police that his Rottie didn’t make it, saying the dog succumbed to her injuries that morning shortly before 10:20am. No information was provided regarding the nature or extent of the injuries.

Based on information gathered during the course of an investigation, a suspect was identified and a 69-year-old man was arrested around 3pm.

Police pressed charges against the man but did not elaborate on the alleged offences, adding later in a statement that the suspect denied injuring the dog.

Asked if charges included animal cruelty or torture, police told Knews the charges were based on violations of the law for the protection and welfare of animals.

The law provides that it is illegal to injure, kill, torture, poison and expose to danger any animal, including animals that are under human supervision.

A statement from the Green party condemned the incident and called for stronger legislation against animal cruelty towards innocent creatures.

“When a dog is found with injuries, we do not under any circumstances ‘hide it’ nor do we throw it away, but we call for help in order to save it,” the party said.

Police said the suspect was released a few hours later while Limassol Central Police station is leading the investigation. A forensic exam is expected to provide more details surrounding the dog’s injuries and death.