Schools near Akrotiri closed ‘as precaution’ after drone strike

Schools in the villages of Trachoni, Episkopi, Akrotiri, and Asomatos – all of which are located within the bounds of the British Akrotiri base area – were closed on Monday “as a precaution” after the air force base at Akrotiri was struck by a drone shortly after midnight.

The Cyprus News Agency quoted a source from the education ministry which confirmed the schools’ closure, and stated that if children nonetheless arrive at the schools, it will either be ensured that they return safely home, or remain under the supervision of teachers on the school grounds.

Personnel on the British bases had been informed shortly after 1am that a “small drone” had “impacted the airfield” and that the bases’ authorities were responding.

It was also confirmed that there were no casualties as a result of the strike, but that “minor damage” had been caused.

The bases’ authorities also instructed personnel to “remain in place and await further instruction”, warning that “there may be additional impact”, with the explosion and siren sounds having been heard in nearby Limassol.