Bust of Eoka fighter Christos Kkelis removed in Kissonerga

Kissonerga, Cyprus. A bust dedicated to Eoka fighter Christos Kkelis was removed overnight in Kissonerga, prompting condemnation from local authorities. Police said they were informed of the theft on Tuesday and that investigations are under way.

Local reaction

Deputy mayor Nikolas Theodosiou described the theft as “a disgrace to our society” and said that “with a little logic, one can understand who is behind such moves”. He added that officers told local authorities similar thefts had been recorded in the past.

About Christos Kkelis

The monument honored Christos Kkelis, who was born in Kissonerga in 1934 and became an active member of Eoka during the 1955-59 campaign against British colonial administration in Cyprus. He was killed on March 7, 1957, in the area between Tala and Kissonerga after a confrontation with British forces.

Historical background

According to historical accounts, Kkelis played a central operational role in the Paphos district during the insurgency. He was involved in organizing armed groups in villages across the region, guarding weapons caches and taking part in attacks on British military patrols and installations.

Earlier operations

He was linked to a series of operations in Kissonerga and surrounding areas between 1955 and 1957, including ambushes and mortar strikes against British positions.