Major search operations underway for missing persons in Nicosia province

Authorities in Cyprus are currently conducting search operations for several missing individuals reported across the Nicosia province. The most urgent operation concerns 75-year-old Erato Athanasiou, also known as Toula Zizirou, who has been missing from her residence in Tsakkistra since 11:00 AM on August 23, 2026. A crisis center has been established by the Morphou Police Department, and extensive search teams—including the fire service, civil defense, K9 units, and drones—are scouring the area. Local community events have been cancelled in the villages of Kambos and Tsakkistra to allow residents to assist in the search effort.

In addition to the case of Erato Athanasiou, police are investigating the disappearances of three other individuals. Nikoletta Iakovou, a 15-year-old girl, has been missing in Nicosia since August 23. Furthermore, 17-year-old Nezar, a Syrian national, has been missing from Strovolos since August 21, and 45-year-old Panayiota Alexandrou has been missing from her home in Nicosia since August 23. Authorities have released descriptions and photographs of all missing persons, urging the public to contact the Nicosia or Morphou Criminal Investigation Departments or the Citizen’s Line at 1460 with any information.