Larnaca community leaders demand safety after Kalo Chorio firing range fire

Representatives of communities near the Kalo Chorio firing range in Larnaca met on Tuesday in Psefadas to voice serious concerns regarding the facility's continued operation. This meeting followed a destructive fire on July 27, 2026, which originated at the firing range and spread to nearby villages, prompting residents to demand accountability and guarantees for their safety and property protection.

The communities represented at the meeting include Agia Anna, Kalo Chorio, Psefadas, Mosfiloti, and Pyrga. Local leaders, including Tremithos community head Stavroulla Vassiliou, described the safety of residents as a "non-negotiable" priority. Participants expressed frustration over what they described as repeated errors by authorities and highlighted the lingering questions left in the wake of the fire.

Previous discussions have taken place between community representatives, Defence Minister Vasilis Palmas, and National Guard Chief Lieutenant General Emmanuel Theodorou. While the authorities have offered assurances, residents remain wary and are waiting for concrete actions. A follow-up meeting with Minister Palmas is scheduled for mid-September to determine the future of the facility. Additionally, members of parliament are expected to formally register the issue for legislative review, as local communities await further developments.