Immediate Response from Ministry of Interior After Akrotiri Alert

Following the alert in the Akrotiri area, the Ministry of Interior (MOI) took immediate action to protect citizens. The Commander of the Civil Defence Force, Maria Papa, stated that all necessary measures have been taken in consultation with the National Guard and the British Bases.

According to Ms. Papa, the Civil Defence was informed of the incident at 12:30 a.m. and immediately activated its forces, moving to Akrotiri and contacting local authorities and the British Bases through the Ministry of Foreign Affairs. Although there was no immediate danger to citizens, they were proactively informed, and those who wished were transferred to the KEN in Limassol.

The Minister of Interior, Konstantinos Ioannou, referred to the increase in the number of shelters, noting that population coverage has increased from 30% to 45% in the last two years, reaching 2,500 shelters nationwide. He also announced that incentives would be given for the creation of shelters in apartment buildings.

Regarding the Early Warning System, Mr. Ioannou stated that the tender was re-announced in December 2024 and is expected to be implemented in June. The Commander of the Civil Defence added that, due to the lack of a fixed siren system in the Akrotiri area, citizens were informed in person by officials and volunteers.