Annual memorial service held for the victims of the Mari naval base explosion

On Sunday, Cypriot government officials held an annual memorial service to honor the 13 individuals who died in the explosion at the Evangelos Florakis naval base in Mari on July 11, 2011. The ceremony specifically honored Captain Andreas Ioannidis and Warrant Officer Kleanthis Kleanthous at the Church of Agios Kosmas o Aitolos. Government Spokesman Konstantinos Letymbiotis represented the administration during the event, which was officiated by Bishop Nikolaos of Amathous. During his address, Letymbiotis emphasized the state's responsibility to proactively prevent tragedies and uphold its duty to its citizens. He stated that the events of July 2011 remain a defining moment of national mourning for the Cyprus National Guard and the police force. The spokesman highlighted the sacrifice of those who died, noting that the pain remains persistent over the last 13 years. The government reaffirmed its commitment to honoring the memory of those who served until their final moments.