During the Easter holiday, law enforcement responded to incidents of illegal fireworks and bonfires, including a standoff with Molotov cocktails in Ypsonas-Erimi, arrests for possession of fireworks in Limassol, Nicosia, and Larnaca, and a bonfire incident in Kiti leading to a fire. Despite the surge in disturbances, police and fire services effectively contained the situation, confiscating a significant amount of fireworks and pyrotechnic devices to ensure public safety.
What were the main incidents during the Easter holiday?
During the Easter holiday, law enforcement dealt with:
– Illegal use of fireworks and bonfires by youth.
– Confiscation of fireworks and pyrotechnic devices.
– A standoff involving Molotov cocktails at Ypsonas-Erimi.
– Arrests for possession of fireworks in Limassol, Nicosia, and Larnaca.
– A bonfire incident in Kiti leading to a fire.
As the Easter celebrations unfolded, various regions across the country experienced a surge in unlawful activities. The police force was on high alert, managing multiple cases of disorder precipitated by the use of fireworks, ignition of bonfires, and other delinquent actions predominantly involving the youth.
Coordinated Law Enforcement Response
The law enforcement agencies, working hand-in-hand with the Fire Service, efficiently responded to several emergency calls concerning fires. Their proactive stance and quick reaction helped in averting injuries, even with the rise in disturbances. The police and fire services were stretched thin but managed to contain the situation effectively.
Confiscation of Fireworks and Pyrotechnic Devices
An impressive haul of fireworks and pyrotechnic devices was seized during these operations. The seizures reflect the significant efforts by the police to clamp down on the illegal possession and use of such items, which are known to pose serious risks to public safety.
Tense Standoff in Ypsonas-Erimi
On Easter night, at approximately 10:30 pm, a distress call brought to light a troubling scene on the road from Ypsonas to Erimi. A group of youths, faces concealed, engaged in reckless behavior by hurling Molotov cocktails and fireworks at passing vehicles, causing immediate danger to motorists.
Law Enforcement’s Intervention
The dispatched Anti-Riot Unit and the Special Action Team arrived promptly, facing an orchestrated assault by an estimated 100 individuals. This hostile group launched various projectiles, including Molotov cocktails and stones, at the police. The officers, facing a dire threat, were compelled to deploy tear gas to disperse the aggressors.
Incidents of Possession
Limassol Arrest
In a separate incident in Limassol, a routine stop led to the discovery of a substantial quantity of factory-made fireworks. An 18-year-old driver was apprehended and is now awaiting a court summons.
Nicosia School Check
Another incident involved a 19-year-old driver who was found in possession of a significant number of pyrotechnic launchers and fireworks. This event occurred in the vicinity of a school in Strovolos, Nicosia, and led to the individual’s arrest.
Larnaca Vehicle Searches
Larnaca saw similar situations where two vehicles were stopped, and searches uncovered fireworks and pyrotechnic devices. Both cases involved adults with minors as passengers, raising concerns about the exposure of children to illegal activities.
Paphos and Kiti Disturbances
Further inspections led to the arrest of a 21-year-old man in Paphos, who was found carrying fireworks near a church. In Kiti, Larnaca district, a gathering of young individuals around a bonfire caused alarm and resulted in a fire spreading to nearby vegetation, necessitating the involvement of both the Fire Service and police force.
Ensuring Public Safety
The incidents throughout the Holy Week emphasized the relentless dedication of the Police Force in safeguarding the community. Their ongoing efforts to combat the dangerous trend of fireworks misuse and general crime are paramount in maintaining public order and safety. The police continue to focus on preventing road accidents and curbing delinquency, highlighting their essential role in protecting society.
During the Easter holiday, there were incidents with fireworks and bonfires. People were arrested for having fireworks, and there was a dangerous situation with Molotov cocktails in Ypsonas-Erimi. The police and fire services worked together to handle these incidents and keep everyone safe. They confiscated a lot of fireworks to prevent more problems. Overall, the police did a good job responding to these events and ensuring public safety.
