A 12-year-old boy is behind the fire in Evrychou that broke out on Sunday, while residents of Kourdali, Spilia, Ayia Irini, and Kannava villages have evacuated as a precaution.
Police said that a boy aged 12 was playing with a lighter in his grandfather’s yard when at some point a fire broke out.
The boy told authorities he tried to put the fire out but it quickly got out of control and spread rapidly.
Authorities will proceed with caution in handling the case due to the suspect being a minor facing possible charges of negligence.
The fire is still not under control as ten fire trucks and three aircraft from Israel are battling the fire, while authorities have also asked for Greece to assist in the effort.
According to media reports, Israel has also sent personnel to assist in the effort, citing a reciprocal relationship with the government of the Republic of Cyprus going back a few years.
Two other fires were burning Saturday and Sunday, making the holiday weekend a hellish challenge for fire fighters and state services.
CYPRUS WEEKLY