New sweep operation for caravans in Larnaca: asbestos found

H.T., suspected of deliberately setting fire to a caravan in Gazimağusa by pouring flammable liquid on it, has been arrested in Girne. The fire also damaged a nearby parked car. During the arrest, the suspect threw three packages into the sea, containing about 7 grams of suspected illicit substance. He has been detained and the investigation is ongoing.

Caravans removed last week from Silver Beach in Gazimağusa by environmental and municipal authorities have been reinstalled on the shoreline. The vehicles were initially relocated to a parking area, but have since been brought back to the same spot.

On 23 August 2026 at about 22:30, a parked caravan caught fire in Famagusta. The flames and high heat damaged two nearby vehicles: car NA 616 suffered burns to its right front and rear sections and roof, and its windshield cracked; car UH 041 had melting on its right front and rear fenders. The caravan's interior, including appliances, furniture, clothing and fishing gear, was largely destroyed. Fire crews extinguished the blaze; an investigation is underway.

On 23 August 2026 at about 22:30, a parked caravan caught fire in Gazimağusa. The blaze damaged its top and contents, as well as two neighbouring vehicles. The cause is being investigated.

The Environment Protection Department has intervened in the months-long caravan problem at Silver Beach. Department Director Yılmaz Altunterim stated that caravans must be removed from the area by 18:00, otherwise further action will be taken. The issue was previously highlighted by the media.

The issue of caravans on the shoreline at Silver Beach in Gazimağusa persists. Despite authorities stating on July 23 that the caravans would be removed within a week, more than ten remain, drawing complaints from residents. The municipality has taken measures, including physical barriers, but caravan owners continue to enter the area via alternative routes.