Banned pit bull bites debt collector’s hand in Limassol attack

A female debt collector suffered serious injuries including a fractured hand after being attacked by a banned pit bull breed dog while visiting a property in Limassol.

The incident, which occurred on Monday, has prompted investigations by both police and veterinary services as the dog appears to belong to a prohibited breed under Cypriot law.

The woman was hospitalised for four days following emergency surgery to treat bleeding and a bone fracture in her left hand caused by the dog bite.

According to her account of the incident, the collector had entered the residence for a scheduled appointment to collect monthly debt payments when the dog emerged unexpectedly from the basement.

“After superhuman efforts by a relative of the dog’s owner, they managed to open the dog’s mouth and free my hand,” the victim stated. “I tried to leave the residence and the dog attacked me again, grabbing my right hand. Fortunately, it didn’t close its mouth to bite me again.”

She managed to exit the property while bleeding heavily and called for help, according to her statement.

The hospital where she was treated notified police about the incident, triggering an official investigation. Veterinary services were also informed.

Veterinary officials visited the residence to examine the dog and assess its aggressive tendencies. Their preliminary assessment indicated the animal displayed characteristics of prohibited breeds, specifically the pit bull terrier.

Under Cypriot law, four breeds and their crossbreeds are prohibited. According to this legislation, if a veterinary officer determines aggressive tendencies in a dog belonging to banned or dangerous breeds, the animal must be seized by the competent local authority—in this case, Limassol Municipality—and euthanised. Sources indicate this has not yet occurred.

Police are investigating potential criminal offences against the dog’s owner, including possession of a prohibited dog breed, sources said.

In-Cyprus