Peaceful rallies were held by Syrians in Cyprus on Sunday after rebels announced the seizure of Damascus and the toppling of President Assad.

In Nicosia Syrians gathered on the walls of the old town chanting slogans and waving Syrian opposition, Cyprus and Greek flags.

From there, hundreds marched to Eleftheria Square chanting slogans.

In Limassol, a march that had been announced a few days ago set off along the coast road and was attended by about 1,000 people carrying opposition Syrian flags and celebrating the downfall of Assad.

Some were even seen offering traditional baked sweets to police officers.

The demo was held under draconian police measures. While police hung back as their intervention was not necessary they had taken the police water cannon Aiantas with them.

Earlier, police said they are on alert to deal with any incidents in case peace does not prevail.

Earlier on Sunday rebels in Syria said they had taken over Damascus and President Assad has fled the country.

On Tuesday, Cyprus’ foreign ministry warned the country’s citizens to “avoid all travel” to Syria, saying it is “closely monitoring the deterioration of the situation” as “the security situation in the country may deteriorate further without warning”.