Limassol: The police confirmed on Saturday evening that they had received information about possible malicious arson attacks. Police announced, following relevant press reports, they have indeed received such information, which is being investigated. At the same time, the police assured that increased preventive measures are being taken. Meanwhile, efforts to extinguish any remaining fire flare-ups in the Limassol district continue on Sunday.
According to Cyprus News Agency, Fire Service Spokesperson Andreas Kettis stated that firefighting forces remain on the ground to deal with any flare-ups as soon as they occur. On Saturday, at around 5 p.m., fires broke out simultaneously in three different locations, 200 metres apart, between the communities of Nikokleia, Fasoula, and Stavrokonnou, in Paphos district.
According to Andreas Kettis, the fires were contained and did not spread. He added that two loaded aircraft were deployed, two more were activated for new drops, and the Paphos fire station responded with a total of five manned fire engines, with personnel being called in from leave to cover the city.
In addition, the Forestry Department participated in the firefighting with seven manned fire engines, two earthmovers, and a foot patrol with 35 forest firefighters. The fires burned 2.5 hectares of dry grass and wild vegetation. Kettis called on all citizens to be alert, observant, and to inform the authorities immediately if they notice anything.