A Greek Cypriot firefighter was briefly detained by Turkish Cypriot “police” in the UN buffer zone near Pyla on Thursday. He has since been released following intervention by UN police, according to UNFICYP.
The firefighter from the Larnaca fire department, had entered a sensitive area of the Pyla plateau accompanied by UN police to inspect the area and prepare a report on vegetation clearance ahead of the summer season, according to CNA.
At a specific point in the buffer zone, Turkish Cypriot “police” stopped the UN police and detained the firefighter.
UNFICYP Spokesperson Aleem Siddique confirmed the incident and the firefighter’s release. Speaking to en.philenews, he said that “UN police officers entered a sensitive area of the Pyla plateau while escorting a firefighter from the Larnaca fire department. He was briefly detained by Turkish Cypriot ‘police’. UN police officers on the ground immediately engaged with the Turkish Cypriot side and secured his prompt release”.
He continued, saying that “The safety and security of civilians inside the UN buffer zone remains our highest priority,” he said.
The Justice Minister has sought a briefing on the matter, and an open line of communication has been established with the relevant bicommunal committee.
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