Wildfire near Polis Chrysochous brought under control

Polis Chrysochous, Cyprus. A wildfire that broke out in a reed bed near Polis Chrysochous in the Paphos district on Wednesday afternoon has been brought under control after burning approximately eight decares.

Firefighting operation

Fire service spokesman Andreas Kettis said five fire engines from the Polis Chrysochous, Stroumbi and Peyia stations were deployed to tackle the blaze.

Five fire engines from the forestry department also assisted, along with a bulldozer. Two firefighting aircraft carried out initial water drops before two helicopters continued aerial operations to secure the fire perimeter.

Damage and investigation

The burned area covers about eight decares, mainly within a riverbed, Kettis said.

Firefighters protected nearby homes and an orchard from the flames. The point where the fire started has been identified, and the cause will be investigated in cooperation with police.