The British bases in Cyprus have assessed the current drone threat to eastern Cyprus as low and said there are no plans to evacuate all bases on the island, according to a message from the military authorities.
In a written message, Chief Superintendent Neil Cripps, Divisional Commander (East) of the Sovereign Base Areas Police, said recent incidents involving drones around RAF Akrotiri and Paphos airport had caused concern among local communities.
He wrote that the authorities currently assess the threat to eastern Cyprus as low.
As a precaution, non-essential personnel at RAF Akrotiri were temporarily moved on Tuesday morning, he said.
He added that, as previously stated by the UK Prime Minister, a range of defensive capabilities is already in place in the area and protection of the Sovereign Base Areas, British bases, local communities and staff has been strengthened in line with the recent threat.
The authorities assess that the threat is directed at RAF Akrotiri and not at Akrotiri village, according to the message. Residents who choose to leave the village will be supported by the British bases.
Those unable to move quickly or considered vulnerable will receive assistance and temporary accommodation for a short period, he said.
At all other locations – Episkopi, Dhekelia and Ayios Nikolaos – workplaces, businesses and facilities remain open as normal, with no restrictions or plans to move either military personnel or local residents, according to the statement.
Cripps said false reports were circulating in national and social media about the evacuation of all British bases on the island, describing the claims as categorically untrue and adding that there are currently no such plans.
