Unexploded shells found during wildfire cleanup in Agia Anna

A wildfire broke out in the Agia Anna community in the Larnaca district on August 26, 2026, around 15:00. The fire, which started in the Tremithos riverbed, burned approximately six hectares of vegetation before being brought under control by 17:30. A major coordinated effort involving 33 Forestry Department personnel, nine Fire Service members, five aircraft, and various ground equipment—including support from the Larnaca District Administration and local residents—prevented the blaze from spreading further.

During the firefighting operation and subsequent site assessment, an unexploded 81mm illuminating mortar shell was discovered within the Kalo Chorio firing range. Security forces, including the police and National Guard, cordoned off the area overnight. On the morning of August 27, National Guard bomb disposal experts successfully neutralized the device. A second object found nearby during the expansion of firebreaks was inspected by police experts and determined to be an inert piece of metal containing no explosive materials. Authorities are investigating the presence of the military munitions, which are believed to be remnants from past firing range exercises.