Two men have been arrested following a late-night operation by game wardens in the Agios Nikonas region.

At around 12:30am, a game warden from the Kalamata Hunting Association, accompanied by two Federal Game Wardens, stopped a farm vehicle carrying two men aged approximately 45–55.

During a search of the vehicle, the wardens reportedly found a loaded shotgun, three cartridges containing pellets and a portable spotlight. The equipment was confiscated and the two men were arrested without resistance.

They were taken to Kardamyli Police Station, where the vehicle and equipment were seized. An administrative fine of €1,700 was also imposed.

The men were subsequently released and will appear before a court, where the case will be determined.

The Kalamata Hunting Association praised the three game wardens involved for their coordinated response.

What is a game warden?

In Greece, a game warden (θηροφύλακας) is an authorised officer responsible for enforcing hunting and wildlife-protection laws. Game wardens patrol rural areas, check hunting licences and equipment, investigate suspected poaching and illegal hunting, and can confiscate weapons or other equipment connected with an offence.

Although many are employed by recognised hunting associations and federations rather than the police, Greek law gives them specific enforcement and investigative powers in relation to hunting offences.