Rescue operation for swimmer off Zygi

On June 28, 2026, at 05:30, the Joint Rescue Coordination Centre (JRCC) initiated the 'NEARCHOS' national search and rescue plan after a swimmer was reported in distress off the coast of Zygi in the Larnaca district. The operation involved multiple agencies, including fast patrol boats from the Port and Maritime Police and the Underwater Demolition Unit of the National Guard. A helicopter from the Police Air Operations Unit was also deployed to assist in the search. An ambulance service team was stationed on standby to provide medical support. The swimmer was successfully located and recovered by a Port and Maritime Police patrol boat. Following the recovery, the individual was found to be in good physical condition. The rescued person was subsequently transferred to an ambulance at the Zygi fishing shelter for further assessment.