larnaca explosion — Three individuals were seriously injured in an explosion at an unlicensed metal collection facility in Aradippou, raising concerns about military ordnance involvement.
- larnaca explosion — Three individuals were seriously injured in an explosion at an unlicensed metal collection facility in Aradippou, raising concerns about military ordnance involvement.
The blast occurred around 9:45 AM when a 52-year-old Greek Cypriot man was delivering scrap metal. During the unloading process, an explosion erupted, injuring the delivery driver, an employee of African descent, and a Bulgarian citizen also present at the site.
All three victims were swiftly transported to Larnaca General Hospital, where they are currently in serious condition and undergoing medical examinations. Authorities have cordoned off the area as multiple agencies, including police and bomb disposal experts, investigate the circumstances surrounding the explosion.
Sources indicate that the facility was operating without the necessary licenses. Despite having received a €600 court fine previously, it continued to function without proper legal authorisation. The Department of Environment had pursued legal action against the operation since 2019, highlighting its ongoing illegal activities.
In 2019, environmental authorities requested a temporary ex parte order to halt operations, but attempts at out-of-court settlements and compliance letters failed. By 2022, a report to the Attorney General reiterated the need for closure, and in 2023, a judge imposed the final €600 fine. However, operations persisted.
Authorities are now investigating whether military ordnance was among the materials delivered. The National Guard has been notified to assist with inquiries into potential explosive materials originating from firing ranges.
Initial police reports suggest that the explosion occurred during routine metal collection procedures, injuring both delivery personnel and facility staff. Emergency services were quick to respond, dispatching ambulances to transport the injured parties to the hospital.
