Authorities have mobilised after an unexploded mortar shell was found during efforts to put out a forest fire in Agia Anna. It is believed to be a mortar shell from the Kalo Chorio firing range, according to information so far. The scene has been cordoned off and is being guarded by police, with a destruction operation expected to take place later today.
The fire was spotted in a forest area by a Forestry Department fire lookout at around 3pm yesterday. Forestry Department and Fire Service vehicles rushed to the scene, supported by aircraft. They managed to contain the blaze to a riverbed area.
Five firefighting aircraft took part in the operation, along with 33 Forestry Department personnel with six vehicles, two water tankers and one bulldozer, and nine Fire Service personnel with three vehicles. A water tanker and bulldozer from the Larnaca District Administration were also brought in to reinforce the operation. Local residents also took part, using an agricultural tractor and an excavator.
The fire was brought under control at 5:30pm, after burning six hectares of reeds, stubble and wild vegetation. Firefighting forces remained in the area overnight to deal with any flare-ups.
