Reinforced concrete structure in Deneia buffer zone raises local concerns

A large, cross-shaped reinforced concrete structure has appeared on the occupied side near the border of the buffer zone in the village of Deneia. The site is located 2.1 kilometres west and 0.5 kilometres north of the village centre. Local residents first noticed the intense construction work several months ago, prompting the Deneia community council to seek clarification from the United Nations Peacekeeping Force in Cyprus (UNFICYP).

UNFICYP officials have informed the community council that the structure is intended to serve as a water reservoir or tank. However, community leader Charalambos Alexandrou has expressed significant reservations regarding this explanation. The council is concerned by the building's design, which features large, sturdy columns and foundations reaching two and a half metres in depth, as well as its proximity to existing military trenches and positions. These trenches, which the community identifies as part of an anti-tank ditch, have been under construction by the occupying army since January 2024.

The situation remains under observation as the community continues to question the military nature of the installation despite the official UN explanation. The presence of these fortifications has been a point of ongoing tension in the area for several months.