Traditional Easter bonfires will take place across parts of Cyprus this Easter under strict conditions, as authorities combine tighter municipal controls with intensified police enforcement to prevent accidents and disorder.
In Paphos district, municipalities are attempting to preserve the long-standing custom while introducing permits, limits on materials and close supervision.
Permits required and strict conditions
Local officials said no bonfire will be allowed on Holy Saturday without prior approval. Church committees must submit a request and meet strict criteria before receiving permission.
The measures were agreed following coordination with police and fire services, amid concerns over past incidents involving uncontrolled fires.
Municipal crews have already been deployed to remove wood and other materials that could be used for unauthorised bonfires. These teams will continue working until midday on Holy Saturday.
So far, only one church has applied for permission, requesting a small quantity of wood. Authorities said they remain in close consultation with organisers to ensure all safety conditions are met.
Approved bonfires will be limited in size and held in designated areas to minimise risk and avoid disruption during religious services.
In Akamas Municipality, increased supervision is in place throughout Holy Week, particularly in Peyia and Kissonerga, where youth gatherings tend to be larger. Security personnel have been stationed in key locations, with additional staff expected on Holy Saturday night.
In Yeroskipou, five organised bonfires are expected to take place at designated sites under controlled conditions.
Intensified police patrols and checks
Alongside municipal measures, police carried out intensified patrols and inspections across all districts on Thursday and overnight, targeting illegal bonfires, firecracker use and youth-related disturbances.
Officers checked a number of young people in areas where groups gather to light fires or use firecrackers. In cases involving minors, parents were notified and called to collect their children.
Police responded to multiple incidents involving fires and firecrackers, often with the support of local authorities and the fire service.
Large quantities of wood and tyres intended for bonfires were seized in several areas to prevent uncontrolled situations.
Arrest in Nicosia and seizures in Paphos
In Nicosia, a 21-year-old man was arrested after police responded to reports of firecracker use at around 9.20pm.
He was found sitting on a parked motorcycle and in possession of approximately 1.8 grams of a substance believed to be cocaine. Nearby, officers discovered and confiscated 23 firecrackers.
The suspect is also under investigation for traffic offences, as the motorcycle had been declared immobilised, lacked a valid roadworthiness certificate and he did not hold a driving licence.
In Paphos, officers conducting checks at around 10.00pm discovered a bag left in an open area containing 15 firecrackers, including five homemade and ten factory-made devices. A knife was also found and seized.
Nationwide effort to prevent incidents
Authorities said patrols and targeted operations will continue across Cyprus in the lead-up to Easter, with an increased presence aimed at preventing dangerous behaviour and enhancing public safety.
Police and local authorities called on the public, particularly young people, to act responsibly and follow instructions, stressing that the tradition can only continue safely with cooperation from the community.
Source: CNA