Recent wildfire outbreaks and criminal arson incidents in Cyprus
Over the past few days, Cyprus has faced a series of fire-related emergencies, including a major wildfire in Pissouri on August 16 and multiple incidents in the Paphos district. The Pissouri fire burned four hectares of vegetation and trees near the motorway before being brought under control by eight fire engines and supported agencies. In the Paphos region, specifically near Lysos, authorities are investigating consecutive fires that officials from the Department of Forests believe were deliberately started as part of a recurring pattern of arson in the area.
Separately, police are investigating a confirmed arson attack on a 36-year-old woman's car in Aglantzia, Nicosia, which occurred on Monday, August 17. An arrest warrant has been issued for a suspect known to the victim following reports of personal disputes. Meanwhile, a minor grass fire near the Rizoelia roundabout in Larnaca was extinguished on August 18 within 23 minutes. Authorities have increased patrols and air surveillance to combat the heightened fire risk, while legal investigations continue regarding older incidents, such as the July 27 fire at the Kalo Chorio firing range.