Fire breaks out in the buffer zone near Kaimakli

On the afternoon of Friday, May 8, 2026, a fire broke out in the United Nations buffer zone near Kaimakli, burning dry grass, crops, and wild vegetation. The Republic of Cyprus Fire Service responded to the scene, with official reports stating that six fire engines were deployed to contain the blaze as it moved toward free areas. To manage the emergency, the Fire Service recalled off-duty personnel and received support from the Forestry Department and the Nicosia District Administration. While some media reports initially cited three vehicles, the official Fire Service update confirmed six units were involved. The fire was visible from various parts of Nicosia, and reports indicated it started around 15:30 and was brought under control by 16:30. During the incident, social media footage showed members of the 'Direct Democracy' movement, including MEP Fidias Panayiotou, assisting with firefighting efforts. This political presence sparked public debate regarding the potential exploitation of the event for communication purposes, with claims made during live broadcasts about alleged delays in the official firefighting response.