Thirteen teenagers aged between 15 and 17 were taken to hospitals in Limassol following a Halloween party after experiencing health problems believed to be linked to alcohol consumption, police have confirmed.
The teenagers reportedly suffered symptoms including vomiting, headaches and dizziness. Ambulances were called to the premises where the event was held to transport some of those affected for medical attention.
Police have identified the organisers and are expected to summon them for questioning. A number of parents have already given statements as part of the investigation.
The focus of the inquiry is on the circumstances under which the event was organised at a well-known seaside club in Limassol, as well as the possible provision of alcoholic drinks to underage attendees.
Police are also examining why such a large number of teenagers required medical treatment following the same event, with investigators seeking to establish whether alcohol consumption alone could explain the incidents or whether other factors may have been involved.
Limassol Assistant Police Director Lefteris Kyriakou confirmed that officers had identified the details of all 13 minors who were taken to various hospitals for first aid.
He said police had already taken steps to investigate the case and establish whether any individuals bore responsibility.
Venue changed at the last minute
According to police, the Halloween party had initially been scheduled to take place at a different location, but the venue was changed at the last minute.
Statements collected so far indicate that some parents claim they were unaware that the event had been moved to the premises where it eventually took place.
The change of venue is among the issues being examined by investigators.
Several parents have already provided statements outlining what they knew about the event and the information they received before allowing their children to attend.
Kyriakou said parents had been informed that alcoholic drinks would not be available at the party.
Questions over 13 hospital admissions
The fact that 13 teenagers from a single event required hospital treatment has raised particular concern.
Police are examining the circumstances surrounding alcohol consumption and the reasons so many minors experienced health problems.
Investigators are seeking to establish whether the incidents could be attributed solely to the teenagers' lack of familiarity with alcohol or whether other factors may have contributed.
No specific conclusions have been announced so far, and this aspect of the investigation remains ongoing.
Organisers and venue management under scrutiny
The organisers are expected to be called in to provide their account of what happened.
Investigators are also examining whether the owners or those responsible for managing the premises may bear any responsibility, amid allegations that alcoholic drinks were sold to underage attendees.
Kyriakou said that, once the investigation is complete, anyone found to be responsible will be brought before the courts.
Police enquiries are continuing.
