The 50-year-old man was killed in Paphos after arguing with another resident who was against the walking of dogs on the island's beaches. After a short argument, the accused got into his car and ran over the dog owner, killing him and his hound instantly.

Walking dogs on beaches has become a controversial issue in Paphos. Vets have suggested that local residents may have been responsible for a recent spate of dog poisonings. At least eight dogs have died this year after eating poisoned meat or fish they found along the shore.

"They don't want visitors walking their dogs on the beach," the Cyprus Mail quoted a local vet as saying. "Instead of putting up notices, like they do in other, civilized, countries, they just poison animals."