Newsroom
Authorities are investigating reports that stones and firecrackers were thrown from the government-controlled side of Nicosia toward the occupied areas during April 1 commemorations, an incident officials warn could risk raising tensions along the island’s sensitive divide.
Government Spokesperson Konstantinos Letymbiotis confirmed on Thursday that competent authorities are looking into allegations linked to events that reportedly took place along Markou Drakou Street, near the buffer zone.
According to Letymbiotis, the investigation focuses on claims that individuals in the free areas threw objects, including stones and firecrackers, toward the opposite side on April 1, a date marked annually in Cyprus with commemorations tied to the start of the EOKA struggle.
Officials are now working to determine exactly what happened and who may have been involved.
The United Nations Peacekeeping Force in Cyprus (UNFICYP) has also been asked to share any evidence or information it may have gathered regarding the incident, the spokesperson said.
“The government condemns any action that causes disruption, tension or disturbance of the peace,” Letymbiotis stressed, underlining the importance of maintaining calm in and around the buffer zone.
While no injuries or damage have been officially reported, incidents near the dividing line are treated seriously due to the potential for misunderstandings or escalation.
Authorities have not yet announced whether arrests or charges are expected, as investigations remain ongoing.
The episode comes as officials continue to call for restraint and responsible behavior during public commemorations, particularly in areas close to the ceasefire line, where even small incidents can quickly attract wider attention.
