Security alert at Larnaca Airport

CYPRUS was on high terror alert over the holiday period after information that British, American and Israeli aircraft at Larnaca Airport could be a target.

Interior Minister Andreas Christou said that authorities had been warned about a threat to aircraft using Larnaca Airport or flying through the island’s airspace.

He said that the heightened alert referred to American and British aircraft in particular.
According to reports from Larnaca, police stepped up land, air and sea patrols in the vicinity of the airport for a 48-hour period, including Christmas Day.

While the patrols were regular throughout the period, security was intensified when any plane with American, British or Israeli interests took off or landed.

Communications and Works Minister Kikis Kazamias visited the airport on Christmas Day. He said the security forces were not concerned, but that they would be taking all the necessary measures which, he said, had been in place for some time.

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