ELAM members attack refugee homes and businesses; Cyprus government responds

A group of masked individuals attacked the homes and businesses of refugees in the "Hloraka" neighborhood of Paphos, where many Syrian refugees reside. The attacks occurred on Sunday night, resulting in damage to several vehicles, the burning of a house due to a Molotov cocktail, and reports of physical assaults on multiple refugees.

The incidents are said to have been triggered by demands from local residents, including representatives from ELAM, EDEK, and DIKO parties, for the removal of Syrian and other refugees from the area. Masked groups reportedly dispersed throughout the area, targeting pre-selected locations for attacks, wielding sticks and other implements.

The Cyprus government convened an emergency meeting in response to the events, deploying a substantial police presence to the area. At least 21 individuals have been arrested, and several refugees were injured, with one police officer and two civilians reportedly hospitalized while attempting to intervene.

Nikos Christodoulides, the leader of the Republic of Cyprus, emphasized the government's commitment to not tolerate racist attacks and stated that appropriate actions would be taken against those responsible for the violence.

The events have been widely condemned by various political parties, including DISY, AKEL, DIKO, and ELAM itself, which denies any involvement in the attacks. The situation highlights the ongoing tensions surrounding refugees and the need for maintaining social harmony.