Reports of unauthorised activity
The Avlona buffer zone has come under renewed scrutiny after reports that a Turkish settler carried out unauthorised agricultural activity in the so-called “frozen area” of the UN-controlled zone in the occupied part of Cyprus.
According to local reports, the individual was seen returning to the area on Sunday after an earlier entry on Thursday, operating agricultural machinery and collecting harvested crops into bales of straw.
The activity reportedly took place in close proximity to a United Nations observation post and along a dirt road used for UN patrols.
Concerns over access and security
The community leader of Avlona, Menelaos Savva, told local media that the community council has requested the relocation of the UN-used road further north, up to the limits of the Turkish observation post, so that Greek Cypriot farmers can access and cultivate their land more safely.
Farmers in the area are reportedly unable to enter the buffer zone due to security concerns, including the proximity of Turkish military positions and the absence of corresponding National Guard presence.
United Nations forces continue to patrol the area using helicopters and vehicles, but local reports suggest they face difficulties enforcing restrictions.
According to these accounts, UN personnel often attempt to persuade individuals to leave the restricted zone, but compliance is inconsistent, with repeated entries reported over time.
Ongoing pattern of repeated incidents
Farmers in the area believe the repeated presence of settlers is not coincidental, suggesting it occurs with the awareness or tolerance of Turkish military authorities controlling the area.
Reports also indicate a pattern in which individuals initially agree to stop entering the zone but are later replaced by others continuing similar activities, leading to recurring tensions.
Earlier incidents of unauthorised entry were also reported in January, highlighting what appears to be an ongoing issue in the buffer zone.
Also read: Üstel: Summit showed EU’s “biased and unfair” stance on Cyprus issue
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