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Foot-and-Mouth Disease: Authorities Investigating 75-Year-Old for Smuggling Hay from Occupied Territories

Published February 27, 2026, 14:12
Foot-and-Mouth Disease: Authorities Investigating 75-Year-Old for Smuggling Hay from Occupied Territories

The Customs Department of Cyprus, in collaboration with the Police, is investigating information regarding the illegal trafficking of hay and animal feed from the occupied territories. The investigation concerns a 75-year-old man, who was recently involved in a case of illegal trafficking of tobacco products from the occupied territories and paid an out-of-court settlement of 13,000 euros. The information states that the 75-year-old may frequently illegally transport goods to and from the occupied territories, including hay and animal feed. Authorities are concerned about the possible spread of foot-and-mouth disease from the occupied territories to the free areas, through the transported products. Currently, the information is under investigation and has not been confirmed. The authorities will try to collect evidence linking the transported products to the possible spread of the virus. The process is expected to be time-consuming, as it requires careful investigation and collection of evidence. If the illegal transport of animal feed and hay is confirmed, the possible connection to the spread of foot-and-mouth disease will be investigated and the necessary measures will be taken to protect livestock in the free areas.