Newsflash from Saturday, 17 January 2026:
Residents demand action as authorities investigate a serious animal cruelty case in eastern Crete.
Shock and anger have swept through the village of Kritsa, in the Municipality of Agios Nikolaos, following reports that a dog was deliberately shot and killed, while other animals were endangered by poisoned bait found in the area.
According to information reported to local authorities, an unknown individual allegedly used a hunting firearm to kill a dog, an act that constitutes a serious criminal offense under Greece’s animal protection laws. The incident has been formally reported, and an investigation is now underway to identify those responsible.
Poisoned Bait Raises Wider Fears
What has intensified concern among residents is the discovery of poisoned bait in the wider area around Kritsa during the same period. These findings suggest the incident may not be isolated but part of a more dangerous and potentially organized pattern of animal cruelty.
In one alarming case, a dog that consumed poisoned bait showed immediate and severe symptoms. Thanks to the swift response of local citizens and a veterinarian, the animal’s life was saved at the last possible moment.
Threat to Animals and Public Safety
Locals have voiced strong concerns not only for the safety of pets and stray animals but also for public health, as poisoned bait poses a serious risk to people as well—especially children who may unknowingly come into contact with it.
Animal welfare advocates and residents alike are calling for **stricter enforcement of the law**, increased patrols, and heightened awareness to prevent further incidents.
Call for Vigilance
Authorities urge anyone who notices suspicious behavior or finds poisoned bait to report it immediately and avoid touching it. As the investigation continues, the community of Kritsa remains united in demanding accountability and protection for animals and residents alike.
The case serves as a stark reminder that animal cruelty is a serious crime, with severe legal consequences, and one that deeply affects the safety and conscience of local communities.
⁉️Something’s been going on in Lasithi lately.
So many investigations packed into a fortnight can’t be explained! And today, January 16, 2026, George had an autopsy with 🐕🦺Nesi, this time in Vitsilocharaka Ammoudara, Agios Nikolaos.
The results are discouraging: 2 spots with pieces of liver covered with a white toxic substance, 🐕1 dog poisoned but fortunately recovering at the vet, 1 dog dead from gunshot wounds and evidence of another that was not found.
Both dogs (the one that was almost poisoned and the one that was shot) belong to the same citizen, who informed George about the incident. Two separate complaints will be filed regarding the incident: one for the poisoned bait to the Forestry Service and one for the shot animal to the Agios Nikolaos Police Department.
The detection team was accompanied by the Federal Game Warden of the Hunting Federation of Crete and the Dodecanese, Mr. George Skyvalos.
The photos are by @GeorgeChorafas.
