Calm at Dhekelia bases after drone strike
The situation at the British bases in Dhekelia remained calm on Tuesday, with no further attacks or incidents reported following Monday’s Iranian-backed drone strike, which was launched from Lebanon.
According to reports, the bases issued a statement on Monday afternoon to the mayors of the surrounding municipalities of Ayia Napa and Paralimni–Deryneia, informing them of the incident to ensure residents were kept up to date amid ongoing developments.
“No action is required from local communities beyond staying informed. You will be notified immediately in the event of further developments or the need to take measures,” the bases said.
The administration added that it remains at the disposal of local mayors around the clock for any clarifications.
In its coverage, the Cyprus News Agency reported that rumours circulating on social media about an alleged explosion in the Dhekelia area could not be verified.
Schools in the villages of Trachoni, Episkopi, Akrotiri and Asomatos, located within the RAF Akrotiri base area, were closed on Monday as a precaution after the airfield was struck by a drone shortly after midnight.
The presence of a “small drone” which “impacted the airfield” and caused “minor damage” was communicated to members of the British bases shortly after 1am. Authorities later confirmed they were responding to the incident.
Personnel were instructed to remain in place and await further instructions, amid warnings that there could be additional impacts, as explosions and sirens were heard in nearby Limassol.