akrotiri residents — More than 100 Akrotiri residents have been relocated to hotels in Limassol after a recent drone strike raised safety concerns in the area. The move was prompted by the need to ensure the safety of families and vulnerable individuals living near the British bases.
Akrotiri residents: Commissioner Hartsiotis Visits Evacuees
On Friday morning, Presidency Commissioner Marios Hartsiotis visited several hotels to check on the living conditions of those evacuated. His itinerary included stops at the Harmony Hotel, Captain’s Elias, and Moniatis Hotel in Germasogeia, where he spoke with residents and listened to their concerns.
Residents’ Safety is a Priority
Currently, 47 individuals are accommodated at the Harmony Hotel, 31 at Captain’s Elias, and 62 at Moniatis Hotel. Hartsiotis expressed gratitude for the residents’ cooperation during this challenging time. He emphasised that the government’s main priority is the safety and physical integrity of citizens affected by the incident.
Concerns About Returning Home
During his visit, Hartsiotis acknowledged the residents’ desire to return to their homes. He explained that authorities are conducting daily risk assessments based on the latest data to determine when it will be safe for them to go back. “We hope that conditions will allow these people to return to their homes as soon as possible so we can all return to a normal life,” he stated.
Future of the Evacuation
When asked about the possibility of extending the evacuation until Monday, coinciding with the return of British personnel to the base, Hartsiotis confirmed that the Republic of Cyprus is carefully evaluating all available information. While it appears that British bases are planning for such an extension, the Cypriot government intends to provide more clarity by Friday afternoon regarding the residents’ return and the reopening of schools.
