Resident of Northern Cyprus independently organized aid for firefighters in Southern Cyprus

On July 25, 2025, Turkish Cypriot Orhun Karagözlü, a resident of Lefka in the northern part of Cyprus, independently organized aid for firefighters battling the blaze in the Limassol area. Without waiting for official agreements between the Republic of Cyprus and the TRNC, he decided to act on his own behalf to contribute to the fight against the devastating fires.

Orhun reached out to his friends and acquaintances, asking them to collect essential items for the rescuers. As a result, he gathered water, biscuits, medicines, kitchenware, and shovels. He personally loaded them into a vehicle and delivered them to the southern part of the island, to the fire-affected area where the Republic of Cyprus fire services are operating. According to him, he wanted to support those who risk their lives fighting the natural disaster.

Despite the political division of the island, Karagözlü’s act became an example of civic solidarity and the will to help regardless of borders and administrative barriers. This is especially important in a context where formal mechanisms for coordination between the two parts of the island are lacking, yet human connections and a shared desire to support each other in difficult times persist.

Orhun’s story shows that even one person can make a difference if they act sincerely and with conscience. His action has already received wide recognition on social media, with users from both sides expressing gratitude and respect for the volunteer.