A truck driver has been arrested in southern Greece after being caught breaking a ban on the local transport of livestock amid the sheep pox epidemic, authorities said Friday.
A police statement said the suspect was stopped Thursday on a highway near the birthplace of the ancient Olympic Games, in Ancient Olympia, and found to be carrying 16 sheep and goats without a permit from veterinary authorities.
Officials have forbidden any movement of sheep and goats – even letting them out to graze – in areas afflicted by the sheep and goat pox epidemic that’s surged through much of Greece since August 2024.
It’s part of measures designed to contain the spread of the disease that has led so far to nearly half a million animals being culled and is threatening the future of traditional livestock breeding in Greece.
Police said the animals are being tested for pox. The truck was confiscated.