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Akrotiri: 'Explosion Heard and Aircraft Took Off' - Homes Evacuated

Published March 2, 2026, 09:12
Akrotiri: 'Explosion Heard and Aircraft Took Off' - Homes Evacuated

After midnight, the British Akrotiri Bases were put on full alert following an explosion on the runway, apparently caused by the crash of a military drone. Residents of Akrotiri abandoned their homes, with some seeking shelter at the Limassol KED (Crisis Emergency Centre), following instructions from President Christodoulides. The explosion is confirmed by messages from the Bases reporting a threat to safety and instructions for personnel to take cover. Personnel were alerted to a drone strike on the runway, with minor property damage, but no reports of injuries. Witnesses reported hearing an explosion and seeing aircraft taking off, while the Base Police closed the roads leading to Akrotiri. The Mayor of Kourion, Pantelis Georgiou, informed residents about the availability of the Limassol KED, while President Christodoulides was informed and gave the relevant instructions. A large number of residents left the area as a precaution. The British Bases did not comment on the incident, referring to the Ministry of Defence of the United Kingdom, amid rising tensions in the region.