Fire service authorities on Monday raised concerns that some of the recent fires in Larnaca and Paphos may have been deliberately set, according to fire service spokesman Andreas Kettis.

Speaking to the Cyprus News Agency (CNA) on Monday, Kettis indicated that investigations were underway after a spate of fires broke out over the weekend. The fire service, he added, has strengthened its response with both ground and aerial patrols.

In a statement posted on X, Kettis explained that the decision to increase patrols followed repeated fires in specific areas of Larnaca and Paphos. Firefighters managed to control the blazes before they spread, but concerns remain high due to the frequency and locations of the fires.

“We have had to respond to numerous incidents over the weekend, primarily in Larnaca and Paphos. The chief fire officer, Nikos Longinos, has been in direct communication with the police leadership to coordinate additional patrols,” Kettis said.

Authorities have identified areas of particular risk, and measures have been taken to ensure that fire teams are on high alert.

The fire service has also deployed aerial surveillance, with the UAVs (unmanned systems) aircraft team instructed to monitor the affected areas from the air. This move highlights the severity of the situation and the potential for fires to escalate quickly without adequate intervention.

Kettis reiterated that burning grasses and branches is prohibited and urged the public to avoid using illegal doggy places, where large fires have often started. He also confirmed that there are clear indications some fires have been deliberately set, and he stressed the need for vigilance.

“The cooperation of the public is crucial. If anyone notices smoke or a fire, they should immediately contact 112 or 1407 to alert the police and fire Service.”

The fire service’s ability to respond effectively has been bolstered by a recent intake of 260 new staff members. Additionally, Kettis assured the public that the department’s motorised equipment is well-equipped to deal with large-scale incidents.

The fire service is also working in close coordination with other agencies, including the police, forestry department, game and Fauna service, civil defence, and various volunteer groups, to combat the fires.
Despite these efforts, Kettis emphasised the challenging environmental conditions that make fire prevention difficult. He urged the public to remain cautious and to limit activities that could spark fires, particularly during this dry and hot period.

While firefighting efforts have been successful so far, the authorities’ concerns about deliberate arson underscore the importance of both proactive prevention and public cooperation in combating the ongoing fire risk in these regions.