Civil Defence continues patrols in Akrotiri area

Civil Defence members continue to patrol the Akrotiri area and communities near the British bases housing critical infrastructure, spokesman Panagiotis Liasidis told CNA on Wednesday.

The interior ministry said the evacuation of the Akrotiri district will remain in place until Friday, when authorities will reassess the situation. Schools in the area will also stay closed, the education ministry confirmed.

Around 100 people are currently staying at the Monastery of Agios Georgios and at the hotels Moniatis and Odysseia Hotel Kapetanios, Liasidis said.

Food is being supplied at the monastery and Moniatis hotel with the help of the Cyprus Red Cross, while the Odysseia Hotel Kapetanios provides its own meals, which Civil Defence will cover.

Patrols are conducted in coordination with local authorities, including the mayor of Kourion and the deputy mayor of Akrotiri.

“We are trying to inform them, to reassure them. In general, we need to remain calm. Residents are calling the operations control centre for information on shelters,” Liasidis added.

Authorities have confirmed that the evacuation of Akrotiri is precautionary and voluntary, with no immediate danger, and not all residents have left their homes.

Civil defence teams continue to patrol the area and provide guidance while schools remain closed until Friday.