Suspect in deliberate caravan fire in Gazimağusa arrested in Girne

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.

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.

The issue of caravans occupying the coastal strip in the Silver Beach area of Gazimağusa persists. More than ten caravans are currently present, despite warnings from the municipality. Barriers have been installed to block access, but caravan owners use alternative routes. On July 23, officials from the district office, environmental protection department, and municipality inspected the area and announced that the caravans would be removed within a week, but they remain.

Cyprus road transport department flagged dangerous vehicles, including motorhomes, cars and trucks, and notified the EU Safety Gate system.