Tensions continue in Kriva Palanka over the operation to round up cattle that have been roaming freely through the town and surrounding villages for years. The Food and Veterinary Agency carried out a roundup operation but met resistance from residents.

During the operation, a woman named Julijana was seen searching the hills for her cows, claiming authorities had caused panic among the livestock before detaining her. Video of the situation is spreading on social media and causing a wide reaction.

Kriva Palanka municipality and 16 local communities announced a peaceful protest for February 26 over the uncontrolled movement of cattle causing damage to property and agriculture. The announcement emphasizes that competent institutions have already issued binding decisions, and their non-enforcement poses a threat to public order.

Agency Director Oliver Milanov acknowledged the problem has persisted for years and that the Agency bears the entire burden - financial, staffing, and technical: "Neither the municipality nor other institutions participate in the operations." He called for a systemic solution.

The number of stray cattle in the region has not been officially determined - estimates range between 500 and 900 head. The fate of animals after roundup remains non-transparent to the public, and the situation points to a lack of coordination among competent institutions.