Fire lookouts following Paphos wildfire

A wildfire that broke out Friday morning in remote areas in Paphos is believed to have been a malicious act, with forestry officials saying the area is being monitored in case there is re-ignition.

According to the fire department, a fire was raging in remote areas in Salamiou, Panagias tou Sindi, and Ayios Nicolaos, all in Paphos district, with several fire engines and helicopters taking part in the operation. Aerial support was also provided by the British Bases, with officials saying aerial support early on was a part of an “offensive tactic” to contain the fire.

Some 50 hectares of wild vegetation and shrubs were destroyed by the fire, which was raging all morning and contained in the afternoon. Officials say the wildfire may have started around 5:20am and based on wind patterns in the area, reports said the fire was slowing down by 2:30pm.

Officials believe the fire could be the result of arson and have called on the public to report any suspicious activity in the area. Reports say there have been fires in the specific area in the past, as there was expressed interest in turning it into pasture land.

No houses or built up areas were at risk at any given time but the fire did go through areas with cultivated land, according to reports.