Man charged with starting Limassol fire

A 49-year-old man was charged on Monday in connection with the fire in Arakapas in the Limassol district that burned two hectares of trees, beehives and wild vegetation.

The fire broke out at around 11.45am in an area near Arakapas when sparks created from the welding machine the 49-year-old was using fell on dry grass. It was brought under control at around 3pm, the fire service said.

To help put out the fire 10 engines were recruited, along with two airplanes and two helicopters. Around two hectares of trees, beehives and dry vegetation were burned down.

The 49-year-old, who was asked to go to the area’s police station, admitted that the fire was caused due to his activities and was charged to appear before court at a later date, police said.