Residents of the Ayios Dometios area are experiencing heightened anxiety following a recent incident in the buffer zone, Mayor Kostas Petrou said.
In an event on Monday, a significant number of Turkish soldiers, estimated at around 40, were mobilised in the area, causing alarm among the local population.
Mayor Petrou commented on the worsening situation, noting the psychological impact on residents living adjacent to the buffer zone. He highlighted that the community already faces challenges due to its proximity to the buffer zone and the increased traffic to and from the Ayios Dometios checkpoint.
This recent event marks a significant escalation in military activity. While there have been minor troop movements in the past, this is the first time such a large armed presence has been observed. Reports indicate that the soldiers were vocal and created a tense atmosphere.
The incident occurred near the Ayios Dometios checkpoint, following the old English cemetery within the buffer zone.
According to government spokesperson Konstantinos Letympiotis, Turkish occupation forces entered the buffer zone on Monday afternoon. A small unit established a presence in an uninhabited house, installing a metal pole equipped with a rotating camera and an antenna.
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