National Guard command decisions examined in Kalo Chorio wildfire inquiry

Kalo Chorio, Cyprus. The investigation into a wildfire that broke out after a military exercise at the Kalo Chorio firing range has expanded to examine decisions made at senior levels of the National Guard. Investigators are assessing whether criminal or disciplinary offences arose from the circumstances surrounding Monday’s fire.

Training exercise under review

According to information reported by Reporter, the disposal of about seven articles of ammunition was carried out as a training exercise for personnel expected to undertake future disposal operations.

The exercise reportedly involved American soldiers and had received the required approvals from the National Guard general staff.

Chain of command examined

The criminal inquiry has moved beyond the 70th Engineer Battalion, whose personnel conducted the destruction, to examine the military chain of command that authorised the operation.

The investigation is led by Brigadier General Savvas Stefanou, who is examining who ordered the exercise and how far responsibility may extend within the National Guard hierarchy.

Military sources cited in the report said use of the firing range requires approval from senior command, making it unlikely that the exercise could have proceeded without the general staff’s knowledge.

Procedures and coordination

Investigators are also examining whether the appropriate procedures were followed before the operation and whether all relevant state authorities were informed.

While some services have reportedly said they had no prior knowledge of the exercise, others have stated that there was full coordination.

Stefanou is expected to submit his findings to Defence Minister Vasilis Palmas by the middle of next week.