Tseri shooting range to close as authorities address safety concerns

Defence Minister Vasilis Palmas announced on August 28, 2026, that the countdown has begun for the permanent closure of the Tseri shooting range. While no specific timeline for the shutdown was provided, the decision marks a significant development for local residents, whose representatives had long campaigned for the facility’s removal due to urban expansion and safety concerns. The Deputy Mayor of Tseri, Michalis Xypsitis, welcomed the announcement, noting that residential growth now places homes directly adjacent to the military site.

The announcement follows recent public anxiety triggered by the discovery of two unexploded shells at the Kalo Chorio shooting range during firefighting efforts in Agia Anna. Minister Palmas acknowledged the validity of public concerns but characterized some reactions as exaggerated, noting that finding unexploded ordnance at such sites is not uncommon. To mitigate risks, the Ministry has mandated 24-hour guarding at the Kalo Chorio range and is exploring the installation of cameras for enhanced surveillance. Unlike the Tseri facility, the Ministry stated that the Kalo Chorio range cannot be relocated at this time. Authorities remain focused on ensuring that all munitions are properly destroyed after every training exercise.