A fire at an old dumpsite in Arsos burned five hectares of dry grass, wild vegetation, discarded materials, rubbish and large stacks of wooden pallets on Thursday.
The cause remains under investigation, with Arsos community leader Giannakis Giannaki saying he could not rule out deliberate action. Items carrying the logos of two companies have been handed to police for examination.
Fire brought under control
The Fire Service received the call at 14:47 and dispatched eight fire engines from Limassol fire stations. The operation was supported by six vehicles from the Forestry Department, the ATLAS-DIAS volunteer team, the Arsos and Potamiou community councils and four aerial firefighting units.
The blaze was brought under control at 18:19. Fire engines remained at the scene overnight to monitor the area and respond to any possible flare-ups.
Evidence handed to police
Giannaki told the Cyprus News Agency that the old dumpsite continued to be used illegally, despite no longer operating as an authorised waste disposal site.
He said it had recently been noticed that loads of clothing packed into compressed bales and placed on pallets had been transported to the area.
“We found the logos of two companies on a box and an envelope, which we handed to the police for investigation,” he said.
Police are examining the material to determine whether there is any connection to the fire.
Source: CNA.
