One of the most serious incidents of illegal use of poisoned baits in Greece and the Balkans were called to deal with in the previous days by the Special Poisoned Bait Detection Units (EMADD) of the Natural Environment and Climate Change Organization (OFYPEKA), which they identified 195 such decoysas announced by OFYPECA, while at the same time, in addition to the poisoned baits, and several dead animals, namely: 12 dogs, 1 reed shrike, 1 hawk, 1 buzzard and 1 blackbird. Investigations in the area will continue in the next period, while the procedures prescribed by law will be followed.

The use of poisoned baits is a common practice in Greece, both in urban areas and in the countryside, despite being prohibited by law since 1993. Poisoned baits threaten both wildlife and domestic animals. In recent years, many steps have been taken to deal with this specific crime, such as the creation of Special Poisoned Bait Detection Units (EMADD) and the institutionalization of Local Action Plans.

For more information on the actions implemented by OFYPEKA to combat poisoned baits, visit the website https://antipoison.necca.gov.gr/.