An investigation is underway in the northern prefecture of Drama after a forestry official discovered a decapitated young male bear.

The grim find was made last Wednesday in a mountainous area near the village of Livadero.

An autopsy determined that the animal had been shot twice – once in the back and once in the thigh – before it was beheaded by those responsible.

In a joint statement, the Natural Environment and Climate Change Organization (OFYPEKA) and the environmental group Callisto warned that killing or injuring bears is a criminal offense punishable under the law.