During a tour of the Akama area on Monday, Environment Department Director Lakis Mesimeris, accompanied by EOA Paphou President Haralambos Pittokopitis, Akama Mayor Marino Lamprou, and Environment Commissioner Antonia Theodosiou, inspected compliance and the cessation of operations at refreshment stands.

At the entrance of Akama National Park, across from the Aspro River, one of the two stands in operation has been relocated. However, tables and chairs remain at the site, and Mesimeris instructed the regional authorities’ team to remove them immediately.

For the second stand located at the entrance of the Avaka Gorge—on ecclesiastical land leased by a farmer who sells agricultural products—the Environment Department and Commissioner maintain that only locally produced fruits may be sold. No additional structures or facilities are permitted, and no other items may be sold. The Mayor of Akama stated he will issue a roadside sale license to the producer so that he may display his products.

Mesimeris noted that inspections have revealed structures operating without the required licenses. Together with the Local Authority, necessary actions have been taken to rectify these violations. He acknowledged that while some cases are in compliance, warnings have been issued; should corrective measures not be implemented, the competent authorities will take further action.

In a meeting at the Akama Municipality, Mesimeris emphasized that each party must enforce legislation using all available tools. He added that there will be an increased presence in Akama from the responsible departments—including the Hunting Fund for routine inspections. All services are coordinating to implement enforcement measures with the ultimate goal of eradicating illegal activities, particularly in an environmentally sensitive area like Akama.

EOA Paphou President Haralambos Pittokopitis commented on the visit to the Aspro River, Toxeutras area, and Avaka Gorge. He mentioned that all involved parties have agreed on the necessary actions moving forward and will oversee operations to ensure no further violations occur. He noted that compliance has already been achieved at the Aspro River with the removal of one refreshment stand. Additionally, he indicated that the area where agricultural products are sold will be examined regarding facilities and usage in conjunction with the powers of the Akama Municipality.

Mayor Marino Lamprou stated during the meeting that any violation is condemnable. He noted that while some violations have been removed, others will be addressed through legal review to either enforce removal or issue the appropriate licenses. For the producer selling agricultural products, he confirmed that a roadside sale license will be arranged, adding, “I do not believe there is any illegality in a young farmer selling his own produce in the area where he cultivates.” He also emphasized that the Local Authority will continue monitoring for further illegal activities in the Akama area, collaborating with the responsible departments and EOA.

Environment Commissioner Antonia Theodosiou explained that, based on complaints received at her office, she visited the Akama area to inspect the situation firsthand. She noted that while some issues have been resolved, others remain. She stressed the importance of deciding whether refreshment stands should be allowed in the area, and if so, in which specific locations, ensuring that all activities are organized. She further explained that part of the permissible use includes the sale of agricultural products, but additional activities must be reviewed by the Local Authority and EOA to ensure full legality.

Terra Cypria representative Koula Michail reinforced the message of law enforcement in a statement, asserting, “Illegal activity is illegal,” regardless of its scale. Regarding the sale of agricultural products, she highlighted a health concern, stating that unauthorized structures selling any items may pose issues if the health department does not perform the necessary inspections.