Cyprus Fire Service increases patrols following surge in suspected arson

The Cyprus Fire Service has intensified patrols across the country following a significant rise in outdoor fires over the past week. Fire Service Chief Nikos Logginos reported that more than 1,450 outdoor fires have occurred since the start of the year, with over 90% attributed to human factors. Authorities are now focusing on potential criminal activity, noting patterns such as multiple fire outbreaks occurring within 500 meters of each other. Notable incidents include five consecutive forest fires along the road from Prodromi to Arodes in Paphos, a blaze in the Menikou area, and a complex fire that broke out at 3:50 am on Monday in Prasteio Kellakiou.

In response to these developments, the Fire Service has deployed additional patrols, including the use of reserve firefighters alongside regular staff. Various agencies, including the Forestry Department, Civil Defence, police, and the Air Fire-Fighting Squadron, have been mobilized to manage the threats. While investigations are ongoing, the authorities have publicly appealed for cooperation from citizens, who have already assisted by reporting suspicious activities to the police. No injuries were reported, and the absence of strong winds recently helped teams contain the outbreaks before they spread further.