Environmentalists accuse authorities of negligence in disposal of infected animals

The Movement of Ecologists – Citizens’ Cooperation has alleged possible criminal negligence in the burial of animal carcasses infected with foot-and-mouth disease. The move follows a new case of the disease appearing in Dromolaxia, outside the established quarantine zone.

According to environmentalists, photos from the burial site show animal carcasses lying in water inside a trench, raising concerns about potential soil and groundwater contamination.

It is also reported that infected animals were transported in open trucks, which could have contributed to the spread of the virus during transit.

Furthermore, according to the ecologists, the burial site was not properly covered or isolated, and a foul odor spreads for several kilometers around. The party also questioned whether the disease could spread in a similar manner to the smell.

Farmers, for their part, state that compensation for destroyed livestock does not cover actual losses.

Environmentalists demanded political accountability at the Ministry leadership level and questioned the effectiveness of the department's actions.