National Guard accepts responsibility for fire at Kalo Chorio shooting range

On July 31, 2026, the Cypriot Minister of Defense, Vasilis Palmas, and the Chief of the National Guard, Lieutenant General Emmanouil Theodorou, held a meeting with leaders of communities affected by a fire that broke out on July 27, 2026, at the Kalo Chorio shooting range. The fire was sparked by an explosive ordnance disposal training exercise conducted in collaboration with a partner nation. Both officials issued public apologies to the residents of the communities, including Agia Anna, Pseudas, Mosfiloti, and Pyrga.

During the meeting, authorities established a roadmap to address community concerns. Promised measures include the installation of security cameras, the expansion of firebreaks, and the implementation of compensation for damages caused by the incident. General Theodorou explicitly accepted responsibility on behalf of the National Guard, clarifying that the Ministry of Defense did not have prior oversight of the specific operational risks of the drill. The long-standing demand from local residents for the relocation of the shooting range was also discussed, with the Minister pledging to inform the President and the Council of Ministers about the matter.

An administrative investigation into the circumstances of the fire is currently underway, with findings expected by the middle of next week. Authorities have committed to strict safety reviews to prevent future occurrences.