Nicosia: A man has lost his life and two other people are being treated at Ammochostos General Hospital after two boats ran aground on rocks in the Agioi Anargyroi area of Cape Greco, due to rough seas on Saturday. A total of six people were rescued during the search and rescue operation coordinated by the Joint Rescue Coordination Center (JRCC).
According to Cyprus News Agency, the National Search and Rescue Plan 'NEARCHOS' was activated in the Agioi Anargyroi sea area at Cape Greco, with the aim of rescuing people in distress on three vessels. Two of the three vessels were completely destroyed after running aground on rocks due to heavy seas.
It is noted that a total of six people were rescued during the operation. The first person was rescued by a patrol from the Famagusta Police Department and is reported to be in good health. Search and Rescue helicopters rescued a further five people. Two are in good health and, after receiving first aid, were discharged, while two others are being treated at Famagusta General Hospital.
At the same time, one person, a Greek Cypriot, was recovered unconscious by a Search and Rescue helicopter and taken to Famagusta General Hospital, where he was pronounced dead, it is reported. The rescue operation involved a helicopter from the Police Air Operations Unit, a helicopter from the National Guard's 460th Search and Rescue Squadron, a patrol from the Famagusta Police Directorate, personnel from the Disaster Response Special Unit (D.R.S.U), the Famagusta Fire Station, and ambulances from the Ambulance Service.
After the incident, Limassol Mayor, Yiannis Armeftis, expressed deep sorrow over the death of Dimis Mavropoulos, who lost his life at Cape Greco, and said in a post that the deceased left his mark on the city of Limassol through his long-standing presence and contribution. The Cyprus Automobile Federation also expressed deep sorrow.