Cyprus police conduct nationwide crackdown on Easter bonfire materials and firecrackers

Cyprus police have launched intensified patrols across all districts to prevent the use of firecrackers and the unauthorized lighting of Easter bonfires, known as lampratzia. During recent operations, authorities confiscated large quantities of wood, furniture, and trash meant for fires in Nicosia, Limassol, and other regions, including twelve truckloads removed in Limassol alone. In Paphos, police intervened in two separate incidents involving fire lighting. Around 7:00 p.m., officers encountered a group of youths; a 13.5-year-old was found in possession of a knife, and his guardian was subsequently summoned. Later, at approximately 8:30 p.m., a 17-year-old and a 23-year-old were located at a fire scene, resulting in the arrest of the older individual due to outstanding court fines. The fire service has also been mobilized to extinguish various open fires. Authorities continue these targeted operations throughout Holy Week to ensure public safety. Police stress that these actions aim to deter illegal activity and prevent dangerous public behavior.