Police have begun taking statements from livestock farmers and unit veterinarians in Larnaca after animals were found infected with foot-and-mouth disease, authorities said.
In a statement, Police confirmed the investigation is focusing in part on whether there was a delay in notifying the Veterinary Services, stressing that failure to promptly report the onset of symptoms constitutes a criminal offence.
On Saturday afternoon, the Veterinary Services said they would examine information indicating that certain livestock units had recorded cases but concealed them or failed to notify authorities in time for the relevant legislation and disease-control protocols to be implemented.
According to Police, farmers at units in Oroklini — where positive cases were confirmed — said animals began showing symptoms on 14 and 16 February respectively.
Citing Article 6 of Law 109/2001, Police underlined that any veterinarian, operator or person responsible for animals who detects or suspects a notifiable disease is legally obliged to immediately inform the Director or the District Veterinary Officer. Failure to do so is a criminal offence.
Laboratory testing is continuing.