British Bases Police are fully prepared for the start of the ambelopoulia migration season on 31 August, with officers stepping up efforts to prevent illegal bird trapping in the Eastern Sovereign Base Areas.
The Community Action Team (CAT) is increasing patrols and using drones, number plate recognition systems and surveillance equipment to identify and deter trapping activity.
Police said their zero-tolerance policy remains in force, warning that offenders will be identified, arrested and prosecuted.
Teams already targeting potential trapping sites
In a statement, Dhekelia British Bases Police said the ambelopoulia migration season begins at the end of August and that CAT will draw on its extensive experience, modern technology and cooperation with government agencies and non-governmental organisations.
The aim is to keep illegal bird trapping at near-zero levels within the Sovereign Base Areas.
CAT officers are already operating across the Eastern Sovereign Base Areas, identifying potential trapping locations and dismantling installations set up by people seeking to profit from the illegal activity.
Poachers attempt to catch migratory birds using nets and deadly limesticks, but CAT head Sergeant Yiannakis Louka said his team was fully prepared to act.
“The authorities will identify, arrest and prosecute offenders,” he said.
“Building on our long-standing commitment and previous successes, we will once again lead the effort, maintaining a proactive, intelligence-led approach aimed at preventing and detecting illegal trapping.”
Police working with Cyprus and conservation groups
British Bases Police will continue working closely with the Anti-Poaching Unit, Cyprus Police, the Game and Fauna Service, local authorities and environmental organisations including BirdLife Cyprus, the Committee Against Bird Slaughter (CABS) and the Royal Society for the Protection of Birds (RSPB).
The cooperation will focus on intelligence sharing and joint efforts to protect wildlife and tackle illegal activity.
Drones and surveillance technology deployed
Louka said CAT would once again make full use of technology and specialist equipment available to officers.
This will include Automatic Number Plate Recognition (ANPR) systems, drones, surveillance equipment and other technological capabilities to support operations, gather evidence and identify offenders so they can be brought to justice.
A strong police presence at locations associated with illegal bird trapping is also expected to act as a deterrent.
Public urged to report suspicious activity
Louka called on members of the public to support the operation by reporting suspicious activity or information to police.
“Members of the public are urged to report any suspicious activity or relevant information to the police authorities. Information provided by the public will remain strictly confidential,” the statement said.
The ambelopoulia migration season runs from 31 August until 31 October.
Also read: Five-month-old baby found dead in Limassol
For more videos and updates, check out our YouTube channel
