A large, cross-shaped concrete structure has appeared near the buffer zone in Denia, close to the area controlled by Turkish forces, raising questions among local residents about its purpose.
The structure was identified through satellite image analysis and is located around 2.1 kilometres west and 500 metres north of the centre of Denia. It stands close to trenches where construction work began in January 2024.
Unlike a simple anti-tank trench, the new structure appears to involve reinforced concrete. According to information reported by Philenews, its foundation extends around 2.5 metres underground, suggesting a substantial construction.
UN says structure is a water reservoir
Residents noticed the building and the increased construction activity in the area and sought clarification from the United Nations Peacekeeping Force in Cyprus (UNFICYP).
The response given to the community council was that a water supply facility or reservoir was being built at the site.
However, Denia community council has expressed reservations about the explanation. Community leader Charalambos Alexandrou told Philenews that the structure features reinforced concrete and large, sturdy columns.
Concerns have also been raised about its location, directly along the buffer zone amid trenches and military positions.
Military activity near Denia has prompted repeated complaints
Military activity in the Denia area has repeatedly drawn objections, both over alleged harassment of Greek Cypriot farmers working in the buffer zone and the construction of fortifications on the Turkish-controlled side near the ceasefire line.
In January 2024, then-community leader Christakis Panayiotou reported that excavators were digging trenches between 50 and 100 metres from fields cultivated by Greek Cypriot farmers. The United Nations and the relevant authorities of the Republic of Cyprus were informed of the work.
Complaints about restrictions on farmers accessing their land have continued.
On 23 September 2026, Alexandrou reported that two uniformed Turkish personnel travelling in a vehicle belonging to the Turkish military had attempted to make farmers leave the area, citing a 1998 map. According to Alexandrou, two to three similar incidents had been reported each week during the preceding two months.
UNFICYP intervened in that incident by deploying peacekeepers to the area. The force’s spokesperson, Alim Siddique, said the intervention followed reports of a violation within the buffer zone and aimed to de-escalate tensions and restore calm.
Community authorities continue to call for farmers to be guaranteed unhindered access to their fields.
Also read: Christodoulides describes meeting with Erhürman as constructive
For more videos and updates, check out our YouTube channel
