George Mazonakis, a 54-year-old singer, died from a cardiac arrest during a scheduled plasmapheresis treatment. Plasmapheresis is a procedure that separates plasma from blood to remove harmful substances. It's commonly used to treat autoimmune diseases and other conditions. The process is considered safe when performed by trained healthcare professionals. Mazonakis was declared dead shortly after his arrival at the hospital.
Stefanos Stefanou outlined the criteria for the candidate that AKEL will support in the 2028 presidential elections, focusing on what is unacceptable. His main goal is progressive change and resolving the Cyprus issue. Stefanou pointed out that previous governments failed to meet societal needs. He emphasized the need for sustainable policies in energy, water, and environmental sectors. AKEL is working to create a majority social movement ahead of the upcoming elections.
Investigations have revealed that the orders for the assassination of two British nationals in Cyprus are linked to the Irish Kinahan cartel. Smaller criminal networks from Ireland and Sweden collaborated for the execution of the plan. Eight individuals, including Irish and Swedish nationals, have been arrested in connection with the case. The Kinahan organization is known for its cocaine trafficking activities in Europe, although authorities have recently limited its operations. The assassination plot was arranged through messaging apps and involved a high payment for the hitman.
George Mazonakis has died of a heart attack. He passed away at the 'Elpis' hospital. This news brings sadness to the music world. Details surrounding his death are limited. More information will be published soon.
The Independent Authority Against Corruption is expected to issue an important announcement on Monday regarding the surveillance case. Transparency Commissioner Charis Pogiatzis announced the forthcoming statement without providing details on its content. There had been prior acknowledgment of the investigation into the 'black van'. MP Irini Charalambidou raised questions about the progress of the investigation. More information about the case, which has raised concerns, is anticipated.
Concerns about police cooperation with criminal elements were raised through a complaint to the Anti-Corruption Authority. The complaint was dismissed due to its anonymous nature. Justice Minister Kostas Fytiris stated that all complaints will be investigated, noting that over 10 police officers have been suspended recently. He promised that officers would be removed from duty if convicted. Additionally, the security for sports events may need to be taken over by clubs in the future.
In Cyprus, significant changes are occurring at the top of the regulatory authorities, such as the Securities Commission and the Central Bank. These changes may soon be formalized by the Cabinet. Additionally, new roles are being assigned to individuals who already have experience within these authorities. George Theoharidis will conclude his term at the Securities Commission, with George Karatzias taking over his position. Other personnel shifts in this sector are also anticipated.
A 25-year-old food delivery man identified his robbers during his police statement. The two suspects, aged 21 and 19, were arrested, and drugs were found in their possession during the search. The young delivery man, recently discharged from the hospital, recognized the robbers who are also facing drug-related charges. Investigations uncovered 772 grams of cannabis and a scale. The suspects were brought to court and are being held temporarily for seven days.
The police are investigating an attack in Nicosia where two 32-year-olds assaulted a 30-year-old man, injuring him. The driver hit the 30-year-old with his car, and subsequently struck the 32-year-old friend who rushed to assist. Both 32-year-olds were arrested, and it was found that one of their motorcycles had been reported stolen. The injured were taken to the hospital, with the 32-year-old sustaining serious injuries but in stable condition. The police continue their investigations into the case.
Marine pollution in Limassol is a significant concern due to its environmental and economic impacts. The Ministry of Shipping has devised 22 actions to tackle the issue. The plan includes short-term and medium-term measures scheduled for implementation between 2026 and 2027. Among these actions are water monitoring, drone surveillance, and the installation of sensors. The aim is to implement a comprehensive governance framework for better pollution management.
A 54-year-old woman in Athens gave birth to a healthy baby girl from an embryo that had been frozen for 22 years. This birth marks a significant medical achievement, being the longest duration of frozen storage leading to childbirth recorded worldwide. Christina Rapti-Tzelepi, the mother, previously had a son who tragically lost his life in a car accident. The new birth brings relief and hope to the family, who continue to remember their lost son. The case is set to be published in international scientific literature.
The meeting between the President and the Turkish Cypriot leader lasted approximately one hour. The United Nations stated that no announcement would be made regarding the results of the discussions. The President is expected to give a statement to the media from the Presidential Palace. More information will be shared shortly, but there are currently no details available. The meeting has sparked expectations about developments in the Cyprus issue.
President Nikos Christodoulides stated that if there is genuine political will, it is possible to make history regarding the Cyprus issue. He referred to recent cancellations of events in the occupied areas, noting that such developments are not unprecedented. The prospect of reuniting Cyprus and improving the future for all Cypriots is central to his statements. He added that the continuation of the current situation harms both communities. The President expressed his commitment to contribute positively to the situation.
The Interior Minister announced two new housing schemes aimed at increasing the available housing options. The first scheme allows the construction of additional residences for children or grandchildren, even if the building coefficient has been exhausted. The second scheme involves allocating government plots at a quarter of their market value to families based on specific criteria. The aim is to support young families and make better use of existing properties. Details will be announced soon by the Ministry of the Interior.
The verdict for the murder of Thanasis Kalogeropoulos was not announced as scheduled. The Permanent Criminal Court in Limassol could not finalize the decision due to the large volume of witness testimonies. The case is rescheduled for October 23 at 9 a.m. The murder occurred in a parking lot next to a seaside restaurant. The court proceedings were held under strict security measures due to the expected ruling.
ALMA is not planning to support Andreas Mavrogiannis' candidacy for the presidential elections. Instead, they are looking for an independent candidate who can secure support from various political formations. The process of finding a candidate is in the preparatory stages, with discussions ongoing among party officials. If they cannot find a suitable person, it is likely they will proceed with an independent run. The party is also planning its Electoral Congress for 2027.
The Audit Service puts the Ministry of Transport in a difficult position regarding the contract for urban buses in Paphos. There are serious issues such as service quality, road safety, and environmental impact. The contractor has not fulfilled their promises to acquire new buses, with only 32 out of the required 72 being integrated into the fleet. Furthermore, the vehicles used are outdated technology. This situation raises concerns about the contractor's compliance with contractual obligations.
The case of Lindsay Clancy, charged with the murder of her three children, has sparked a challenging discussion among jurors. Despite nearly unanimous agreement, one juror refused to concur, delaying the process. The jurors express their frustration with the lack of understanding of Clancy's mental health condition during the trial. They point out that there were no witnesses to prove Clancy was a bad mother. The women who spoke publicly consider this juror's stance arrogant and biased against the case.
The first signs of rising winter infections are appearing in Europe, according to the European Centre for Disease Prevention and Control. Cyprus expects to receive 170,000 flu vaccines and 125,000 COVID-19 vaccines. Vaccinations will also include pregnant women and children with specific criteria. The increase in laboratory detections suggests that respiratory viruses are beginning to return. However, this situation does not indicate that a major outbreak has started.
Egypt is sending a military contingent to Cyprus to participate in the independence anniversary parade, reflecting their close collaboration. Their diplomatic relations have been strengthened by a trilateral meeting in El Alamein involving Egypt, Cyprus, and Greece. The leaders discussed geopolitical developments in the Eastern Mediterranean. The participation of the Egyptian military symbolizes trust and cooperation in defense matters. They aim to send a clear message to Turkey through this action.
Akanthou is being transformed into a tourist destination similar to Ayia Napa, with many tourist accommodations being built. Many properties in the area lack title deeds, which could create problems for their heirs. This is highlighted by Loizos Michail, a member of the Refugees' Association. Additionally, several plots have been declared by more than one owner, leading to uncertainty. There are concerns that the Turks might exploit this situation.
The Ministers of Energy and Finance stated that Cyprus cannot retract from the commitments made by the previous government regarding the Cyprus-Greece electricity interconnection. The Christodoulides government agreed to allocate €125 million to ADMIHE, but there is a delay in paying €50 million for the years 2025 and 2026. The project's cost is expected to exceed €1.9 billion, requiring new investors. Studies for the project's economic viability are anticipated in 2026. The ministers emphasized the importance of adhering to the country's obligations within the EU.
The decision to reduce police guards for political figures is now under the jurisdiction of the Police, rather than the Cabinet. This change follows a legal opinion stating that the risk assessment is the responsibility of the Police. Guards will be reassessed after the parliamentary elections, based on actual protection needs. The Minister of Justice has voluntarily opted to reduce his own protection in line with broader changes. Ultimately, the process will be objective and based on criteria determined by the Police.
Cyprus is moving forward with the purchase of an aircraft for the transportation of patients abroad, as at least 100 airlift cases have been recorded in 10 months. Most of these transports are urgent or life-threatening. The government is considering funding through the European budget for the years 2028-2035. The Health Insurance Organization has noted the critical need for immediate transports, as patients' health conditions do not allow for travel on commercial flights. The issue is expected to be proposed for discussion within 2027.
The leak of contact information belonging to President Nikos Christodoulides and other government officials has prompted investigations by various government services. The information appears to have come from open sources rather than from interception. There is no immediate threat to security, but caution in handling personal data is advised. Relevant experts have participated in assessing the situation. The issue raises discussions regarding the cybersecurity of government officials.
Andreas Mavroyiannis is expected to announce his decisions regarding the 2028 presidential elections by the end of the year. He is consulting with his team to evaluate the political landscape. Even though he seeks support from AKEL, his candidacy will not be dependent on party decisions. His good relationship with AKEL continues, highlighted by a recent dinner with AKEL's general secretary. AKEL's internal processes are expected to be completed by March 2027.