The Sovereign Base Areas (SBA) Police have launched Operation Hunter, a coordinated enforcement initiative aimed at supporting lawful and responsible hunting activity between 23 August 2026 and 28 February 2027.
The operation is designed to prevent and detect poaching, the illegal training of hunting dogs and other related offences within the SBAs.
SBA Police are working in partnership with:
- The SBA Administration Environmental Department
- The Republic of Cyprus Game and Fauna Service
- Cyprus Police
Focus on illegal activities
With the hunting season now under way, Dhekelia Police Station has issued guidance highlighting the risks and penalties associated with breaches of hunting legislation.
The advice places particular emphasis on:
- Illegal bird trapping
- Unlawful training of hunting dogs in prohibited areas
- Other hunting-related offences
Drones and surveillance technology
During the season, officers will conduct targeted patrols and intelligence-led operations.
Technology will also play a key role in enforcement efforts, including the use of:
- Drones
- Surveillance equipment
- Body-worn cameras
- Automatic Number Plate Recognition (ANPR) systems
Police have reminded hunters of their legal obligations, including holding the appropriate licences and complying with authorised hunting dates and permitted locations.
They also stressed the importance of:
- Protecting public safety
- Safeguarding wildlife
- Preventing damage to private property
Zero tolerance for poaching
Chief Inspector Tony Demetriou, Head of Operations at SBA Police Akrotiri, said authorities would take a firm approach to offenders.
"We will take a robust approach towards poaching, illegal dog training and any activity that places the public, wildlife, or property at risk."
He said cooperation with partner agencies and local communities would help police prevent offences, gather evidence and bring offenders to justice.
Public urged to report offences
Demetriou encouraged members of the public to report suspicious hunting-related activity, including:
- Shooting in prohibited areas
- The use of vehicles to pursue wildlife
- Illegal dog training
- Suspected poaching
"All reports will be assessed and acted upon in accordance with the information available and the level of identified risk."
He added that SBA Police wished all lawful hunters a safe and responsible hunting season and urged everyone using the countryside to remain mindful of their own safety and that of others.
