Griechenland – 23. 04. 2026
Organised Poaching Rings Under Fire in Zakynthos
CABS Operation Seizes Caches of Weapons and Ammunition
ZAKYNTHOS, GREECE - The Committee Against Bird Slaughter (CABS) has dealt a significant blow to illegal hunting operations on the island of Zakynthos. During a high-stakes operation on the Vasilikos peninsula this past Saturday, CABS activists and game wardens successfully dismantled a sophisticated poaching site in an area long considered "untouchable" by local illegal hunters.
Following intensive surveillance, CABS reported six hunters operating from hidden hides and chairs within olive plantations on a strategic hilltop. Despite evidence of an organised "spotter" network that warned the poachers of approaching patrols, the operation resulted in:
- The Seizure of 5 hidden shotguns found concealed in thick brush.
- The Recovery of 484 cartridges hidden in the surrounding area.
- The Identification of all six hunters, also through video evidence.
This operation brings the total number of poachers caught red-handed - or identified immediately following pursuit to 14 individuals since 11th April, the start of the current bird protection camp.
While celebrating these enforcement successes, CABS is sounding the alarm regarding the resources allocated by the government, as they fall far short of what is needed to effectively tackle the true scale of illegal poaching in all its forms.
"The organised nature and true extent of these crimes is undeniable” said CABS spokesperson Stefania Travaglia. "When you have six hunters operating in a single plantation and hundreds of shots echoing across the island, it is clear that the Forest Service and game wardens are neither equipped nor resourced to proportionally combat this level of organised crime. Without a significant increase in specialised training, modern equipment, the authorities will remain one step behind these poaching rings while the Turtle Dove is driven further toward extinction."
The mission comes at a critical time. Zakynthos is currently experiencing the peak migration days for the European Turtle Dove. Favourable winds have brought thousands of these protected birds over the island, leading to what CABS observers describe as a "massacre."
During the weekend, CABS teams recorded hundreds of illegal shots across the island. The organisation is currently compiling video and audio evidence of these instances to submit to the European Commission and national authorities.
CABS will remain on the ground throughout the peak migration period to document illegal activity and pressure local authorities to uphold international bird protection laws.
- ENDS
Contact for more information CABS Press Officer Axel Hirschfeld Email CABS@komitee.de or phone +49 179 4803 805
Attached photos:
1, Seized weapons and ammunition at the Police station in Zakynthos.