UNFICYP is fully engaged with the situation in Deneia, its spokesperson Aleem Siddique told the Cyprus News Agency, responding to a question about the fresh tension in the area this morning.
Greek Cypriot farmers attempted to cultivate their fields in the buffer zone this morning, but they were prevented from doing so, the Head of the community council Charalambos Alexandrou told the CNA. He said that Turkish occupying forces and farmers arrived from the occupied areas and there was tension.
UNFICYP’s spokesperson told CNA that “farmers are reminded that they must abide by UN regulations for all civilian activities inside the buffer zone”, adding that “farming in proximity to the northern ceasefire line is strictly prohibited, as is farming without a valid UN permit.”
According to Siddique, “UNFICYP is increasing its high level engagement and liaison with the opposing forces to ensure order and prevent tension from escalating.”
He said that “both sides have a responsibility to respect the status quo across the UN buffer zone” and that “UNFICYP is on standby to de-escalate tensions in the area.”
Earlier Cyprus police officers and the army were at the area. The Foreign Affairs Ministry is aware of the situation and in contact with the UN.
The Head of the Community Council told CNA that around noon the Turkish Cypriot farmers and the occupying army left the area and only UN officers remained there with a vehicle.
