Nicosia, Cyprus. Defence Minister Vasilis Palmas said those found responsible for the wildfire at the Kalo Chorio firing range will be held accountable under the law, after he received the National Guard’s disciplinary investigation report.
He said he would not comment on the findings while the Cyprus police criminal investigation remains ongoing.
Investigation report
Palmas said he received the report from National Guard commander Lieutenant General Emmanouel Theodorou.
In a written statement, he said he would conduct a thorough study of the report but would make no further comment while the police investigation continues.
He said respect for the investigative process and the need to safeguard the integrity of the criminal inquiry prevented public discussion of matters under investigation.
Once the criminal investigation is completed and all evidence has been evaluated, responsibilities will be assigned where they arise, in accordance with the law, Palmas said.
The police investigation findings are expected to be submitted to the Legal Service within the coming week.
Damage and relocation calls
Communities affected by the wildfire have unanimously renewed calls for the Kalo Chorio firing range to be relocated.
The defence ministry has also pledged to cover all damage caused by the fire.
July wildfire
The fire broke out on July 27 during ammunition disposal operations at the Kalo Chorio firing range.
It spread rapidly, burning around 120 hectares of land and forcing the evacuation of Ayia Anna and Psevdas.
