Investigation launched following allegations of bribery in foot-and-mouth disease case

During a protest outside the Ministry of Agriculture, a livestock farmer alleged that officials received bribes to transport 500 sheep infected with foot-and-mouth disease to a slaughterhouse in Kato Moni. The farmer claimed these animals were moved in three trucks with the knowledge and tolerance of the Veterinary Services. Following these public accusations, the director of the Veterinary Services, Christodoulos Pipis, filed an official complaint with the Police Headquarters, alleging defamation and requesting an investigation into potential criminal acts by the farmer. When summoned by the police to provide evidence for his claims, the farmer failed to provide concrete details or documentation, remaining vague throughout his testimony. Despite the lack of substantiating evidence provided by the accuser, the police have officially appointed an investigator to examine the case from all angles. The situation remains under investigation to determine if there is any merit to the allegations or if they constitute libel. No official proof has been produced to confirm that the transport of infected animals was facilitated by bribery.