The Civil Defence has categorically denied postings and relevant uploads in social media claiming that its director Maria Papa was seen at a beach during the devastating fire and as the service was battling to evacuate hundreds of residents from affected areas.
Forced to issue a public statement following the uproar, the Civil Defence clarified that Papa was abroad at the time for scheduled family reasons, as she attended her son’s graduation and took care of issues relevant to his studies.
It is further stressed that all the necessary due processes were implemented to the fullest during her absence and a deputy commander had been appointed to secure operational coordination.
As noted in the statement, following a briefing on the fire, the Civil Defence Commander immediately made arrangements for her return to Cyprus, where she arrived just before midnight on the day of the fire and at six in the morning of July 24th she was at the Ypsonas Coordination Centre, heading up the team.
‘We condemn the dissemination of fake news during periods of crisis, as they undermine the work of competent authorities and cause undue confusion’, the Civil Defence added.
It further reaffirmed its support for those affected and strengthening social resilience through the contribution of permanent staff and hundreds of volunteers.
