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Cyprus’ Audit Service is investigating a controversial concert held in Pegeia during a businessman's birthday party, citing possible negligence by state officials in protecting a sensitive environmental site.
The outdoor event, which took place on August 23, drew attention because it was held near the Lara-Toxeftra area, a protected site where green turtles, the only ones in the EU to breed in Cyprus, nest. The Audit Service has sent letters to the Ministers of Interior and Agriculture seeking details about approvals, environmental assessments, and any measures taken to protect the site.
According to the Audit Service, the stage, spotlights, and sound systems installed for the concert fell partly within urban nature protection zone Z1, Natura 2000 network areas, and designated beach protection zones. Under Cyprus law, any project in these zones requires prior environmental approval and assessment, especially if there is a likelihood of significant impact on the area’s conservation objectives.
Audit Service spokesperson Marios Petrides said officials are awaiting responses from the ministries. Once received, the Audit Service will complete the review and either issue an announcement or prepare a special report. “Our goal is for all taxpayers to be aware,” Petrides said.
The letters also requested information on whether the Council of Ministers’ approval was obtained, whether mitigation measures were applied, and whether state officers were present on-site during the concert to monitor any disturbance. The inquiry specifically concerns the installation of the stage with spotlights and speakers, rather than previous years’ use of the location as a café-restaurant.
In response, the Departments of Environment and Fisheries and Marine Research said all necessary precautions were taken to prevent harm to the turtles and the protected beach. They emphasized that there was no negligence or delay by the departments and expressed regret that the Audit Service’s announcement appeared before all information was officially received.
The investigation remains ongoing, and while the Municipality of Akamas is not currently under scrutiny, officials say it could be contacted if relevant information emerges.
