Black oil patches continue to float in the coastal waters of Limassol

Oil pollution has affected the coastal areas of Limassol, sparking public protests and increasing concerns about public health after swimmers reported black oil stains on their skin.

The pollution became apparent on Saturday, July 12, when oil patches appeared in the sea across a wide area along the city's coast. Social media posts showed photos of black oily patches on swimmers’ legs, including those of a baby, and videos captured traces of tar on the beach sand.

According to swimmers, the areas of Poseidonia and Armonia were the most affected, although similar incidents were reported elsewhere along the coastline.

Citizens are demanding information about the pollution and calling for action, expressing concern over what they describe as government inaction regarding the situation.

"Our legs, even our children's legs, were black with oil residues that couldn’t be washed off. No one warned us or closed the beach. It’s unthinkable to let our children play in toxic water," wrote one local resident on social media who visited the beach with their family.

Authorities are investigating the source of the pollution.