Two people have died and authorities are investigating potential criminal negligence following the collapse of a residential building in Germasogeia, Limassol, on Saturday afternoon.
The eastern section of the Elka Dueling Court on Aeschylus Street collapsed “like a house of cards” shortly after 1:00 p.m., leaving the remainder of the structure split in two and leaning precariously.
Official reports indicate the building had previously been deemed unfit for habitation and dangerous. The seven owners had been notified of the building’s condition by the former Germasogeia Municipality and subsequently by the Limassol Provincial Self-Government Organisation.
Despite these warnings, owners reportedly continued to rent out apartments and collect payments. One unit was even renovated and listed on an online booking platform. A review from October 2024 warned that while the flat was renovated, the building was “so old it feels like it will fall and crush you.”
Emergency crews from the Fire Service, EMAK, and Civil Defence worked through the night to search the debris following reports that a third person may be trapped. Four people were taken to hospital, where they remain in stable condition and out of danger.
A specialized investigative team from the Limassol CID has been formed to determine the exact cause of the collapse and identify any criminal offences.
Police have already begun taking statements from survivors, neighbours, and local government officials. The apartment owners have also been called before the authorities. The operation to clear the site is expected to take several days as the remaining structure is at high risk of further collapse.
