British Bases Police operations against bird trapping continue unabated, with the reduction in this phenomenon exceeding 98% since 2016, according to a relevant announcement.
It is also reported that "bird trapping remains at low levels as the trapping season draws to a close. Anti-bird trapping operations by the Base Police continue unabated, despite the fact that the migration season for the vine-fed birds ends this month."
It is added that "special police officers from the Community Action Group (CAG) worked in collaboration with key Non-Governmental Organizations to detect and deter would-be trappers operating within the Base areas. Between August 1 and October 17, eight cases of illegal use of nets and three of quail poaching using bird-imitation devices have been recorded."
According to the announcement, "this proactive approach to combating bird trapping has led to a reduction in crime by more than 98% since 2016."
Senior Lieutenant Colonel of Dhekelia, George Louis, said that “the Police’s commitment to tackling bird crime and the coordinated approach with NGO partners – the Committee Against Bird Slaughter (CABS) and Bird Life Cyprus – means that his team can stay one step ahead of the trappers.”
The British Bases Police continued, “We proactively respond to any identified cases of bird trapping, either by our partners at Bird Life Cyprus and CABS, or by our own Intelligence Unit. The BCPD can also request support from an additional 60 police officers in the eastern areas of the Bases, who patrol 24 hours a week, as well as additional military support, when required,” he said.
Moreover, the Base Commander, Major General Tom Bewick, "had a meeting last week with Bird Life Cyprus and the Royal Society for the Protection of Birds (RSPB) in Akrotiri, to reinforce his commitment to the cause and assure partners that, despite the great success of the last decade, the momentum will not be lost."
Source: KYPE
