Defence Minister Vasilis Palmas has expressed strong dissatisfaction over the way ammunition destruction was carried out, a process linked to the outbreak of the major Kalo Chorio fire in Larnaca district.
Speaking on Monday, Palmas described the procedure as unprofessional and said he had already ordered an investigation to determine the exact circumstances surrounding the incident.
“I have already ordered an investigation into the exact circumstances of this unpleasant situation,” the Defence Minister said, adding that responsibility would be assigned wherever evidence points.
‘Responsibilities have names and surnames’
Palmas stressed that “responsibilities have names and surnames”, making clear that those responsible for any mistakes during the procedure would be identified.
The investigation will examine the decisions and actions taken during the ammunition destruction process, which preceded the fire at the Kalo Chorio firing range.
Ammunition destroyed despite extreme conditions
According to the Defence Minister, the ammunition destruction was carried out by the 70th Engineer Battalion, despite temperatures reaching around 40 degrees Celsius and a ban on explosions due to the extremely high fire risk.
Palmas said that, despite these conditions, the destruction of the ammunition proceeded, and the circumstances surrounding the decision are now under investigation.
The Kalo Chorio fire caused a major firefighting operation, with aerial and ground forces deployed and evacuations ordered in nearby communities.
Also read: “Ikaros” plan activated as wildfires force Agia Anna, Psevdas evacuations
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