MVP

Tag: farming

  • Women on Quad Bikes Target Farms for Produce Theft in Paphos

    Women on Quad Bikes Target Farms for Produce Theft in Paphos

    An organised crop theft ring has resurfaced in villages around Laona in the Paphos district, with women on quad bikes stealing produce and selling it immediately to waiting buyers, according to new police complaints.

    • The scheme, initially uncovered by Phileleftheros last April, had seen a temporary halt before resuming recently, as detailed in complaints filed to local law enforcement and officials.

    The scheme, initially uncovered by Phileleftheros last April, had seen a temporary halt before resuming recently, as detailed in complaints filed to local law enforcement and officials.

    Reports indicate that women working in farms and local businesses are riding quad bikes into fields, stealing crops, and selling them on the spot to accomplices nearby. This troubling trend has become a growing concern among local farmers and residents.

    The operation came to light when a farmland owner discovered a stranger on a quad bike in her field. Upon being noticed, the woman began taking photographs with her mobile phone. When questioned about her presence, she claimed she was merely photographing the surroundings.

    However, the landowner had already observed large quantities of her crops cut and placed in bags next to the quad bike. After leaving to inform her relatives, she witnessed a commercial vehicle arrive, from which an unknown man emerged. The woman approached him with the stolen produce, which led to a startling exchange.

    The buyer initially offered her €20, but after a brief confrontation, he increased the amount to €40 before driving off with the stolen goods. The landowner managed to photograph the quad bike before it left and subsequently filed a complaint with the police.

    Other plantation owners have reported similar incidents, indicating that this operation is systematic and well-organised. Local residents have also voiced their concerns to officials, prompting MP Chrysanthos Savvides to confirm the reports and highlight the existence of an organised gang targeting the area.

    Farmers and residents from Drouseia and surrounding areas have expressed frustration, stating that women on quad bikes frequently invade farms, cut crops, and sell them within minutes to buyers arriving in vehicles. This rapid turnover has raised alarms about the need for increased vigilance and protective measures for local agriculture.

  • Cyprus cows: Cyprus’ Cows Celebrate Heritage in New Documentary

    Cyprus cows: Cyprus’ Cows Celebrate Heritage in New Documentary

    cyprus cows — cyprus cows — Cyprus’ cows take centre stage in a new documentary that highlights their historical significance and current challenges. The film, titled The World Shrinks, premiered earlier this week at the Pantheon Cinema in Nicosia and brings to light the unique role of these animals in Cypriot agriculture and culture.

    Cyprus cows: A Rich Tapestry of History and Science

    The documentary delves into the story of the Cypriot cow, a creature that has been integral to farming on the island for centuries. It combines elements of archaeology, history, genetics, and folklore to showcase both well-known and unexpected facets of the cow’s legacy. This multifaceted approach aims to educate viewers on the importance of agricultural biodiversity and the rich heritage these animals represent.

    Voices of Expertise

    Anna Spyrou, a researcher involved in the film’s creation, expressed her fascination with the cows, attributing it to a blend of scientific inquiry and personal narratives from individuals she has met over the years, some of whom have since passed away. “These cows have seen it all,” she remarked, underscoring the deep connection between the animals and the people who have relied on them.

    Dr Efi Snow, representing the agriculture minister, referred to the cows as “a living treasure” of Cyprus. This sentiment was echoed by India’s High Commissioner, Manish Manish, who highlighted the genetic links of the Cypriot breed to Bos indicus, suggesting a surprising connection to Indian cattle.

    Scientific Insights and Cultural Significance

    The documentary is grounded in the Areti research programme, a collaboration involving the Cyprus Institute, the agricultural research institute, and Dublin’s Smurfit Institute of Population Genetics. It features genomic profiling of 10 per cent of the island’s local cows, marking a scientific first for Cyprus. This research provides crucial insights into the breed’s adaptation to the island’s unique climate and terrain.

    Dr Anastasios Leventis from the AG Leventis Foundation noted that the research has resolved many queries regarding this ancient breed, further emphasising their vital role in the rural landscape of Cyprus. Professor Thilo Rehren from the Cyprus Institute added that these cows are not merely livestock; they are interwoven into the very fabric of rural society and deserve robust protection.

    Capturing the Rural Experience

    The film not only presents scientific data but also captures the essence of rural life. Viewers are taken through the daily realities of farming, which involves hard work, dedication, and, at times, the stubbornness of the animals themselves. The documentary aims to foster an appreciation for the labour that goes into maintaining the agricultural heritage of Cyprus.

    The Importance of Preservation

    One of the film’s key messages is the importance of preserving agricultural biodiversity. As farming practices evolve and modernisation takes hold, there is a risk that traditional breeds, like the Cypriot cow, may vanish. This documentary serves as a timely reminder of the need to protect these animals, not just as agricultural assets but as symbols of cultural identity.

    Engaging the Community

    The screening at the Pantheon Cinema was well-received, attracting a diverse audience eager to learn more about the cows that have shaped the island’s agricultural landscape. The film’s engaging narration and visual storytelling have sparked conversations about the future of farming in Cyprus and the role of these animals in it.

    As the documentary gains traction, it is hoped that it will inspire further discussions on sustainable farming practices and the importance of maintaining local breeds. By highlighting the historical and cultural significance of Cyprus’ cows, The World Shrinks aims to instil a sense of pride and responsibility among viewers.

    Looking Ahead

    In an era where many traditional practices are at risk of being lost, documentaries like The World Shrinks play a crucial role in preserving cultural narratives. They remind us of the intrinsic value of our agricultural heritage and the animals that have been by our side throughout history.

    As the conversation around agricultural sustainability continues to evolve, the insights shared through this documentary could serve as a catalyst for renewed interest in protecting not just the cows of Cyprus, but the ecosystems they inhabit.