negligence — The focus of the ongoing investigation into the disappearance of explosives lies in the negligence of national guard officers, as acknowledged by Defence Minister Vasilis Palmas. Speaking on CyBC, Palmas confirmed that an internal inquiry has revealed significant omissions and failures among the officers involved in the incident.
This inquiry, which has now concluded, follows the disappearance of 13.6 kilograms of TNT during a national guard training exercise on January 29 at the Kalo Chorio firing range. The explosives were lost after a controlled detonation failed, and personnel were forced to wait before returning to the site, only to discover the explosives were missing.
Palmas stated, “The report identifies responsibilities and serious omissions by officers who took part in the exercise,” indicating that disciplinary measures will be taken in accordance with national guard regulations. He emphasised that the public’s main concern revolves around the criminal aspects of the case and the urgent recovery of the explosives.
Drone footage confirmed the presence of the TNT just before its disappearance, ruling out unrecorded detonations and leading authorities to suspect possible theft. Palmas expressed the gravity of the situation, noting that the missing TNT poses a serious risk should it fall into the hands of individuals with criminal intentions.
While the internal investigation has reached its conclusion, a separate police investigation is still underway, focusing on the recovery of the missing explosives. Palmas cautioned against expecting rapid results from the criminal probe, assuring the public that finding the TNT remains a priority.
He reiterated, “What matters most to society is the criminal investigation and finding the explosives that were lost due to unprofessional conduct.” The police investigation, conducted by Larnaca police, is examining all possible circumstances surrounding the disappearance, but no arrests have been made as of yet.
New developments this week indicate that despite recent changes in the senior command, the disciplinary investigation is on track. Reports suggest that the collection of statements related to Brigadier-General Alkis Alkiviades has been finalised. Although Alkiviades was relieved of duty following routine evaluations, officials clarified that this decision was administrative and unrelated to the TNT case.
A senior officer, who remains in active service, will complete the drafting of the final disciplinary report within the timeframe set by Palmas. The defence ministry has asserted that the change in officer does not affect the substance or timeline of the investigation.
Currently, the inquiry has not indicated any criminal intent, but should disciplinary breaches be confirmed, those involved will face a disciplinary council. The final decision will rest with the chief of the general staff, Georgios Karayiannis.
Palmas has consistently highlighted the potential dangers associated with the missing TNT, warning that it could greatly endanger lives if it were to be acquired by those with malicious intentions. He asserted the importance of allowing due process to unfold as both the internal and criminal inquiries continue.
