Cyprus Police Investigate Supplier After Kangaroo Found Butchered in Parking Lot

The Cyprus Animal Party has raised serious concerns over illegal animal slaughter practices after a man was caught butchering a kangaroo in a parking lot in the Famagusta district. The suspect, reportedly supplying exotic meat, has been detained and is now under investigation.

The Animal Party is urging the state’s veterinary services to clarify how widespread illegal slaughtering is on the island. They also expressed concern over the killing of animals without the use of anesthesia—a requirement in kosher and halal practices.

"For years, the Animal Party has warned the government about the urgent need to take stronger preventive action regarding exotic and wild animals on the island," the group said in a statement.

The shocking incident occurred last Wednesday. Police arrested a Cameroonian national, living on the island without legal documentation, after he was found dismembering a kangaroo in a parking lot. A second suspect managed to flee the scene.

During a search of the area, officers discovered plastic bags filled with animal remains, along with an axe and five knives. A veterinary official later confirmed that the remains belonged to a fully grown kangaroo. During questioning, the suspect claimed he had received the dead animal from someone in Paralimni. Authorities seized the remains as part of the investigation.

On Friday, police stated that the investigation is still ongoing. It has been confirmed that the kangaroo came from a nearby animal enclosure and was slaughtered on site. Investigators have taken a statement from the enclosure owner—who also keeps other kangaroos and exotic animals—and are now checking whether the animals were properly registered and whether any had previously been sold for consumption.

A senior veterinary officer said the necropsy of the animal will be completed by Monday.