Cypriot fire chief reports misuse of emergency services amid wildfire surge

During a three-day period, Cyprus faced 55 wildfires, all attributed to human activity due to dense vegetation from recent rains. Chief Fire Officer Nikos Longinos stated that spontaneous combustion is ruled out as temperatures have not yet reached extreme levels. In a notable incident, a citizen in Kaimakli falsely reported their house was burning to secure a fire truck for precautionary protection, diverting resources from the active fire front in the buffer zone. Director of the Department of Forests Savvas Iezekiel reported that three of the 55 fires occurred in forest areas, with one case showing clear evidence of arson. The Department of Forests is currently operating under its highest alert level, employing the 'Astraphi' (Lightning) response plan from April through October. Authorities emphasize that the public's current behavior hinders efficient emergency operations. Fire officials expressed concern over the persistent disregard for fire safety protocols.