Early Life in Agros
Petros Heliadis was born in Agros, a mountainous village in Cyprus. The village had a strong Greek Cypriot identity. British colonial rule dominated Cyprus during his youth. Many in Agros supported Enosis (union with Greece). Heliadis grew up surrounded by nationalist ideals.
The Beginning of E.O.K.A.
In 1954, General Georgios Grivas founded E.O.K.A. (Ethniki Organosis Kyprion Agoniston). The group’s goal was Enosis—Cyprus’s union with Greece. British colonial rule had frustrated Greek Cypriots for decades. Grivas, a veteran of the Greek resistance, organized a secret armed struggle. Heliadis joint E.o.k.a. at a young age of 24 years old.
On April 1, 1955, E.O.K.A. launched its first attacks. They bombed British installations in Nicosia, Limassol, and Larnaca. The British responded with mass arrests and curfews. E.O.K.A. fighters hid in the Troodos Mountains, using guerrilla tactics.
Young Cypriots like Gregoris Afxentiou and Petros Heliadis joined the fight. Villagers supported them with food, shelter, and intelligence. The British labeled E.O.K.A. “terrorists,” but many Cypriots saw them as freedom fighters.
By 1956, the conflict escalated. Britain sent troops and executed E.O.K.A. members. But the movement grew stronger. E.O.K.A.’s campaign forced Britain to reconsider Cyprus’s future. Their struggle paved the way for independence in 1960, though Enosis was never achieved.
Role in the Armed Struggle
Heliadis operated mainly in the Troodos Mountains. He helped organize ambushes against British forces. His group targeted military patrols and supply routes. They also sabotaged communication lines. The British considered E.O.K.A. fighters like him outlaws.
Heliadis worked closely with other local fighters. They hid in caves and remote villages. Civilians in Agros and nearby areas often supported them. They provided food, shelter, and intelligence.
Capture and Imprisonment
Petros Heliadis: The Life and Sacrifice of an EOKA Fighter
Petros Heliadis grew up in his village and attended local primary school. He later graduated from the Apeiteio Higher School in Agros. After completing his studies, he moved to Nicosia and worked as a grocer.
Patriotic Involvement Before EOKA
Heliadis was an active member of OHEN (Orthodox Christian Union of Youth). He stood out for his strong religious faith and deep love for his country. These values led him to join EOKA when the armed struggle began.
Role in the Liberation Struggle
Heliadis started as a supporter, helping with:
Spreading nationalist ideas
Hiding and transporting weapons
Delivering secret messages
Recruiting young fighters
Later, he wanted direct action. He joined Nicosia’s strike groups, where the fight was fiercest.
The Fatal Attack on Metaxas Square
On June 14, 1956, Heliadis attempted a bombing mission against the British. He sneaked through a narrow alley near the Metaxas Square post office (now Eleftherias Square).
British soldiers guarding the rooftop spotted him. Before he could throw his bomb, they opened fire with an automatic weapon.
His Last Hours and Death
Two bullets struck Heliadis, piercing his right lung, stomach, and intestines. He collapsed on Thraki Street and was rushed to Nicosia General Hospital.
Greek doctors operated on him for hours but could not save him. He died the next morning, June 15, 1956, becoming another martyr for Cyprus’s freedom.
Petros Heliadis fought bravely until his last breath. His sacrifice remains a symbol of courage in Cyprus’s struggle for liberation.
After the Struggle
Cyprus gained independence in 1960, though Enosis was not achieved. Former E.O.K.A. fighters became national symbols. Heliadis returned to civilian life but remained respected. His village, Agros, honored his contributions.
Legacy
Petros Heliadis represented the courage of rural fighters. His actions helped pressure the British to leave Cyprus. Today, memorials and local stories keep his memory alive. He remains a symbol of Cyprus’s fight for freedom.
Conclusion
Petros Heliadis was a dedicated E.O.K.A. fighter from Agros. He risked his life for Cyprus’s independence. His story reflects the broader struggle of his people. His legacy endures in Cypriot history.
