The Joker draw took place on Tuesday, March 31, 2026. The drawn numbers are 2, 29, 6, 41, 20, and the Joker number is 18. At least €3,000,000 will be shared among the lucky winners. Draws occur every Tuesday, Thursday, and Sunday at 10 PM. Participation is open to all interested individuals.
From April 6 to September 30, a zero VAT rate will apply to the delivery of meats and fish. This announcement was made by the Tax Department and covers various categories of meats and fish. However, meat and fish preparations will continue to be subject to a reduced VAT of 5%. The government decision aims to reduce prices and support consumers. This initiative is expected to positively impact the purchasing power of citizens.
Some families from the UK are reporting that incorrect sperm or egg donors were used in IVF clinics in the occupied territories. Two mothers, Laura and Beth, discovered that their children are not biologically related to each other, contrary to their expectations. They followed up with DNA tests, which confirmed their suspicions. The cases are linked to clinics in the occupied areas, which attract Britons due to lower costs and advertised high success rates. This situation raises serious questions about the operation of these clinics.
Makarios Drousiotis references political figures and businessmen linked to the Rosicrucian Brotherhood, claiming they play a role in the governance of Cyprus. This Brotherhood is a mystical and philosophical tradition that emerged in 17th century Europe and is associated with occultism and spiritual quest. Rosicrucianism is not considered a religious or political organization but serves to safeguard the Mystagogical Tradition. Its historical roots trace back to Gnosticism and Hermeticism, influenced by ancient cultures. This tradition continues to be present in contemporary society.
Dimitris Papadakis has filed a complaint against Makarios Drousiotis with the Police for publishing false news. The complaint pertains to a post made on social media. Papadakis's lawyers are requesting the Police to demand that Drousiotis hand over any evidence to be scientifically analyzed. The complaint highlights the importance of preserving evidence for the judicial process. Immediate actions from the Police are anticipated.
Mihalis Christodoulou rejects the claims made by Makarios Drousiotis, calling them sick statements. He mentions that he does not know how many children he has, but officially, there are three on paper. He is willing to provide a DNA sample to confirm the truth. In response to questions, he states that he does not personally know Drousiotis and humorously comments on their relationship. He intends to file for compulsory hospitalization regarding the journalist.
Nikos Anastasiades is waiting for the results of the police investigation regarding Makarios Drousiotis's post. In his written statement, he labels Drousiotis as a 'serial lying slanderer.' Anastasiades references his book, explaining that Drousiotis's narratives are not innocent. He emphasizes that Drousiotis's recent post confirms what he claims in his book and states he will not engage further until the investigation is complete.
The National Currency Analysis Center warns about counterfeit €50 banknotes circulating in all provinces of Cyprus. Citizens are advised to carefully check the banknotes they receive. Additionally, business owners should use approved counterfeit detection machines. It is important to report any found counterfeit notes to the police. Safety features of euro banknotes can be checked online.
In the early morning, a van illegally entered from the occupied areas into the free regions and was pursued by the police. The driver, holding a Bulgarian ID, and the co-driver, a Turkish Cypriot with a Republic ID, were arrested. The chase escalated to gunfire directed at the tires of the vehicle. The van is suspected of being used for smuggling tobacco products. Investigations are ongoing to determine the contents of the vehicle.
Makarios Drousiotis has made serious allegations regarding political and judicial figures, requesting time to consult with a lawyer. The claims involve references to pedophilia, corruption, and surveillance. The Chief of Police has asked for Drousiotis's cooperation for an investigation. Those involved countered that Drousiotis's assertions are false. Reactions are ongoing, with a written statement from the former president expected soon.
There has been a significant development in the case of Phydenon Phydenos regarding an alleged rape from 2014, as the public prosecution against him has been suspended by the Limassol Prosecutor's Office. The court decided to halt the proceedings, and the case is expected to be transferred to a court in a different district. It involves four charges, including rape and indecent assault. A special investigative team conducted the inquiry and collected numerous testimonies. The case was withdrawn just before the scheduled trial at the Criminal Court.
The Bishop of Morphou plans to appeal to the Supreme Constitutional Court following the appellate court's decision that overturns the acquittal regarding a case related to COVID-19 in 2021. His lawyer claims that the appellate court overstepped its bounds. The case examines whether the Bishop encouraged followers to violate restrictions. The lawyer emphasizes that there was no obligation from the Bishop’s side. This legal battle aims to secure the Bishop's rights.
The government is starting the selection process for new members of the boards of 12 semi-public organizations, as the term of the current members ends in 2026. A total of 94 positions will be announced, with applications open from April 3 to April 24, 2026. The Advisory Council will evaluate the applications based on clear criteria and submit a list of proposed candidates to the Cabinet. Citizens are encouraged to actively participate and submit their applications. This process aims to enhance transparency and efficiency within the organizations.
The Parliament discussed the rising fuel prices and their impact on the economy. Representatives highlighted the gap between international prices and the domestic market. While a 5.5% decrease in prices is expected in April, further increases are anticipated in May. Fuel companies argued they operate on thin margins and face significant pressure. Lastly, they assured that strategic reserves are in place to handle emergencies.
A serious altercation occurred in Limassol on Monday, linked to social media posts by those involved. Two groups of Iranians are reportedly behind the attempted murder, with six arrests made so far. The shooting of one person appears to be connected to the political situation in Iran. The police are continuing their investigation to locate the weapon used. All suspects are known to each other, with some having familial ties.
The Commerce Committee meeting turned chaotic over the developments in Agia Thekla. The committee chairman, Kyriakos Hadjiyiannis, clashed with the General Director of Environmental Management, Costas Konstantinou, over allegations of opacity and biased assignments. Konstantinou left the session in protest, while Hadjiyiannis urged him to ensure transparency. Local authorities expressed frustration over the delay in developments, which is harming the local economy. Sensitive elements related to the studies for these developments were also mentioned.
Residents in Cyprus are concerned about flashes seen in the night sky, possibly related to bombings in the Middle East. So far, there has been no official explanation for the phenomenon. Locals fear potential threats, like missiles, that could impact the country. No sirens or warning systems were activated in the British Bases or other areas. The flashes have been captured in numerous images and videos circulating online.
The Audit Office reports a significant increase in reports to MOKAS regarding illegal revenue from 2020 to 2024. AML reports have risen by 55%, reaching 3,870 in 2024. The staff at MOKAS has also increased by 76%. New procedures for categorizing reports are being implemented, focusing on high-risk cases. The report highlights challenges in evaluating and managing the incoming reports.
Cyta is nearing the selection of a new CEO, with five candidates advancing to the next round. These candidates were chosen by an external partner to ensure transparency in the process. The Board will interview the candidates and make a final selection, subject to approval by the Cabinet. The new CEO will take over during a significant period, facing challenges not only in telecommunications but also in the electricity market. Strategic goals include offering energy alongside telephony and internet services.
Gunshots were reported early Tuesday morning at a bar in Germasogeia. The bar belongs to a 40-year-old Russian businessman, who has previously been a target of criminal activities. The police quickly arrived at the scene, which is now under guard. Investigations are expected to take place later today. The situation is serious, but no injuries have been reported.
A weak high pressure system is affecting the area, but bad weather called 'Erminio' is coming from Sicily. Today will be mainly clear, although there will be increased cloudiness. There is a chance of local rain, mainly in mountainous areas. Starting Wednesday, cloudy weather with local rains and isolated thunderstorms is expected, as well as dust in the atmosphere. Temperatures will fluctuate around average climatic values with slight increases and decreases.
Tensions are rising in the Middle East as the US and Iran come close to military conflict. Donald Trump has expressed willingness to end military operations against Iran, even if the Strait of Hormuz remains largely closed. The White House focuses on weakening the Iranian navy. If diplomacy fails, the US will seek assistance from European allies. Iran's Foreign Minister calls for the withdrawal of American forces.
The government and the tourism industry are working to find a solution regarding employee subsidies in hotels. A plan is expected to be announced that will provide incentives for hotel units. This plan will be voluntary and come with specific conditions. A broad meeting took place involving government officials and associations of hoteliers. It is crucial to confirm that all hotels are ready to operate.
Teachers are in turmoil due to a decision by the Parliament regarding the supervision and care of students outside school hours. This responsibility has been assigned to the Ministry of Education, excluding other entities such as School Committees and Parents. Educators are concerned they may be asked to take on this responsibility. There have already been responses from the teachers' union, expressing disagreements. Some sources from the ministry are investigating whether the decision is unconstitutional.
The meeting between Nikos Christodoulides and Tufan Erhurman will take place without media presence, allowing the leaders to have a more productive discussion. Scheduled for April 6, the meeting will be held at the residence of the UN Chief's Mission. The leaders aim to avoid the frenzy created by the media. Despite their wish for a closed discussion, Tufan Erhurman is also interested in social meetings, which were rejected by the Greek Cypriot side. The main issue remains the need to restart negotiations on the Cyprus issue.
Three new cancer treatment drugs are being promoted for approval in the European Union. They focus on aggressive forms such as small cell lung cancer and bladder cancer. These new therapies offer significant improvement in patient survival with limited treatment options. Additionally, there are drugs for rare diseases, including pediatric use. These developments are hopeful for patients with cancer and rare conditions.
The proposal for the surveillance of phone conversations by the Intelligence Service without judicial approval has been overturned. After internal party discussions, MP Nikos Tornaritis submitted an amendment that will require a judicial warrant for surveillance. This modification limits the powers of the head of the Intelligence Service. Notably, lawmakers failed to gather the necessary votes for the initial proposal. This decision will be discussed in an extraordinary meeting of the Legal Affairs Committee.
A 44-year-old Azerbaijani with a British passport, arrested in Limassol for spying on behalf of Iran, has filed a case with the European Court of Human Rights. His lawyer claims that the Cypriot authorities did not adequately consider the information received from a foreign agency before his arrest. The accused argues that the charges against him are based on normal activities and that the evidence is unreliable. His case is of interest to law enforcement and media in Britain. He faces charges of terrorism and espionage and is undergoing legal proceedings in Cyprus.