Investigation into Kalo Chorio firing range fire nears completion

On July 27, 2026, a fire broke out at the Kalo Chorio firing range in the Larnaca district during a joint training exercise with the U.S. military. The fire, which spread toward the communities of Agia Anna and Psevda, was sparked by the destruction of six RPG anti-tank warheads by the 70th Engineer Battalion. The incident triggered intense political debate and public outcry, with some circles calling for the resignation of high-ranking government and military officials. Local communities have formally requested the relocation of the firing range, while the Ministry of Defence has pledged to cover all related damages and implement enhanced safety measures.

Brigadier Savvas Stefanou, appointed as the investigating officer, concluded his disciplinary inquiry and submitted the report to the Chief of the National Guard, Lieutenant General Emmanouil Theodorou, on August 5. The report, which analyzed factors including local weather conditions—noting temperatures remained below 38 degrees Celsius—has since been transferred to Defence Minister Vasilis Palmas. The Minister stated that a separate criminal investigation is currently being conducted by the Cyprus Police. Findings from the police investigation are expected to be submitted to the Legal Service next week. Once all evaluations are complete, the authorities have vowed to assign responsibility and act in accordance with the law.