5 Minute News

One of the survivors of the tragic accident in Romania describes the dramatic moments of the crash, stating that he fully remembers everything and mourns his lost friends. He and the other two injured are hospitalized, and arrangements are being made for their airlift back to Greece. He expressed his inability to know more details about the circumstances of the accident. The three of them were close friends and have significant support from the medical staff. The support from the Greek Ministry of Health is crucial for their transfer.

A 45-year-old man is facing serious charges related to the possession and production of child pornography, including material involving his underage daughter. The case was uncovered through an investigation by American detectives and Europol. The accused was arrested in November, and his trial has been postponed. Approximately 700 image and video files were found in his possession. Authorities are continuing to investigate and analyze the collected evidence.

The situation in Akrotiri Wetland is dire, with the flamingo population plummeting from 13,000 to just 47. Environmental organizations and the Game and Fauna Service are alarmed by the ecological destruction caused by lack of coordination and illegal waste disposal. The area is under severe pressure from developments and poor water quality. The Mayor of Kourion has called for parliamentary assistance to address environmental issues. An action plan for the restoration of the area is expected to be finalized soon.

The six accused of the murder of Stavros Dimosthenous will appear for the first time in the Limassol Criminal Court. The murder took place in 2025 and shocked the community. Significant security measures have been put in place for the proceedings. The charges include premeditated murder, participation in a criminal organization, and other serious offenses. The proceedings will continue with the formation of a single indictment.

In Romania, a tragic car accident has cost the lives of 7 young PAOK fans who were traveling to support their team. Among the victims were Christos and Vaxos, beloved individuals who worked hard to attend matches. The news of the accident has caused great mourning among their families and friends. PAOK supporter groups in their hometown are experiencing deep sorrow over this loss. The embassy has not provided many details about the incident.

The new adoption legislation modernizes the framework in Cyprus, focusing on the best interest of the child. It abolishes private adoptions and sets age limits for adoptive parents and children. Registries for prospective parents and children for adoption will be established, and training programs for adoptive parents are introduced. The legislation has received positive reactions from related organizations. However, concerns about its implementation and staff adequacy have been raised.

Archbishop Georgios will call the Police to be present when the metropolitan apartment and office are opened. This step comes due to the Archbishop's dissatisfaction with statements from former Paphos Metropolitan Tychikos. The Archbishop requested Tychikos to return the keys by morning, or else the Police would intervene. The ongoing situation between them has led to legal disputes and investigations. This turmoil highlights the tension in their relationship.

The Commissioner for Child Rights responds to comments made by MEP Feidias Panayiotou, which are considered offensive towards people with disabilities. He emphasizes that such language choices are not mere mistakes, but perpetuate stereotypes and lead to social exclusion. He highlights the importance of language in shaping social attitudes and policies, condemning the devaluation of individuals with disabilities. He states that public officials have a democratic responsibility to promote respect. He concludes by stressing the need for equality and social justice.

U.S. President Donald Trump announced that a strong American naval force is moving towards Iran. He hopes Tehran will accept a fair agreement to prevent the acquisition of nuclear weapons. Trump emphasized the power and determination of the fleet, stating it is larger than the one sent to Venezuela. He reiterated his call for negotiations with Iran, warning that the next attack would be worse. The situation is critical, and time is running out.

The Polish truck driver describes his harrowing experience in the accident in Romania, where seven PAOK fans lost their lives. He mentions that he has been driving trucks for 34 years and has never seen anything like it. The incident occurred on the DN6 highway, known for its danger. A witness stated that the van driver was making overtaking maneuvers when he collided with the truck. This incident is reported to be the worst in Timiș County in the last 20 years.

The Polish truck driver involved in a serious accident in Romania spoke about the tragic event that claimed the lives of seven people. He described that he has 34 years of experience behind the wheel but has never seen anything so horrific. The accident occurred on the so-called 'death road' and is considered the worst in the Timis County in 20 years. An eyewitness reported that the van driver was maneuvering to overtake but couldn't complete the move and collided with the truck. After the crash, there were survivors from the van attempting to escape.

The Police are warning citizens about dangerous phone scams. Scammers are calling unsuspecting individuals, claiming they have won money. To claim their prize, they are instructed to open an account on an investment platform. Citizens are advised to be cautious and not to follow the scammers' instructions. Staying alert is essential to avoid financial fraud.

The tragedy for PAOK continues with the death of a 55-year-old fan in Larissa, who collapsed from a heart attack upon hearing about the horrific incident in Romania. Seven young PAOK supporters lost their lives in an accident involving a minibus colliding with a tanker. Three other passengers were injured but are out of danger. The 55-year-old likely had pre-existing heart issues and was awaiting surgery. Unfortunately, the news overwhelmed him, leading to a tragic outcome.

Two officials from the Social Welfare Services admitted to charges in the court case related to the suicide of 15-year-old Stylianos. The 46-year-old former official changed his response to an admission, while the fifth defendant admitted to three charges. A third person is also expected to admit to some charges. The judge has scheduled the next hearing for February 25. A total of 11 individuals are charged in the case, with the father of the deceased child being a key figure.

President Christodoulides presents a specific proposal with five aspects for the resumption of talks on the Cyprus issue. He emphasized that if there is political will, significant Confidence-Building Measures can be agreed upon. He commented on the four points raised by the Turkish Cypriot leader, stating they have all been addressed from the beginning. He affirmed that if the convergences are accepted, 70-80% of the Cyprus problem is resolved. He concluded by stating that he is approaching the meeting with a very positive attitude.

Today, the weather is expected to be affected by local rain, storms, and possible hail. In higher mountainous areas, snow or sleet may occur. Winds will initially be southeasterly before turning northwesterly, with moderate strength. The temperature will reach around 16 degrees in the interior, while it will be lower in the mountains. Over the next few days, the weather will remain partly cloudy with chances of rain and snow in the mountainous regions.

The Cyprus Electricity Authority (EAC) has installed over 220,000 smart meters so far, exceeding its initial forecasts. Although the original target was to install 400,000 meters by 2027, it is likely that this goal will be reached earlier. The installation process is progressing quickly, and the public is regularly updated about new areas being covered. The first meters were installed in late January 2025, and EAC plans to expand the system to consumers. Installation will also continue in areas outside urban centers.

The suspended Metropolitan Tychikos resides in an apartment of the Paphos Metropolis, not in a room as claimed by his lawyers. Archbishop George stated that if he does not return the keys to the office and the apartment, the police will be involved. Tychikos has filed an appeal to the Ecumenical Patriarchate to overturn the suspension decision. The Archbishop emphasizes that appeals to civil courts can have serious consequences. The situation is surrounded by legal issues regarding the legality of Tychikos's salary.

A serious traffic accident occurred on the Paphos-Limassol highway shortly after midnight. A 30-year-old driver lost control of his vehicle and became trapped inside. He was rescued by the Fire Service and taken to a hospital in Limassol with severe leg injuries. His health condition is reported as serious. The Limassol Traffic Police are conducting investigations into the accident.

A new report reveals serious deficiencies in the management of lease agreements for state forest land occupied by hotels in Ayia Napa. The hotel units are reportedly paying low rents based on outdated prices. This risks revenue loss for the state, especially as tourism activity is on the rise. The failure to timely adjust rents concerns leases that have not been revised for more than three years. The situation highlights significant inequalities and irregularities in the rent calculation process.

The Court of Appeal upheld a six-year prison sentence for a 48-year-old man involved in a fatal hit-and-run incident in Paphos in 2021. The victim, a 60-year-old woman, was struck and abandoned by the defendant, who claimed he thought she was debris. The appeal court dismissed the defendant's appeal, finding the sentence to be fair. The details of the accident are shocking, with three collisions occurring before the victim was abandoned. The accused appeared in court but did not admit to the more serious charges.

A three-month-old baby is hospitalized at Makareio Hospital with serious health issues, including a brain hemorrhage due to violent shaking. The baby's 28-year-old father has been arrested and is being held as a suspect for serious crimes, including causing grievous bodily harm. The police have launched an investigation into the circumstances surrounding the child's condition. The situation under which the hemorrhage occurred is still being examined. The baby's condition remains critical, having undergone surgery and currently being treated in the ICU.

The Environmental Authority issued a negative opinion regarding the construction of breakwaters and vertical projections along the coastal front in Cyprus, citing serious negative impacts. The decision suggests alternative nature-based solutions in erosion-affected areas. The report emphasizes the importance of protecting the local ecosystems and marine resources. Significant habitats like Posidonia meadows and feeding areas for protected turtles would be adversely affected. The construction of new works might also lead to increased erosion and instability along the coast.

The Cypriot Presidency of the EU emphasizes the sectors of Education, Youth, and Sports. Key objectives include promoting the Erasmus+ program and enhancing the status of educators through Artificial Intelligence. There's also a focus on collaboration in Higher Education and building young people's trust in the EU. In Sports, priorities include Sports Tourism and Physical Activity for Health. Additionally, the EU Youth Conference will take place in Nicosia in 2026.

EU Parliament member Fidius Panagou asked for forgiveness for referring to people with intellectual disabilities as 'fools,' claiming it was a linguistic slip. Despite his attempt to apologize through a video, KYSOA argued that his explanation was unsatisfactory. Society reacted strongly to his inappropriate statement, putting pressure on the parliament member. Panagou acknowledged that the term he used was inappropriate and publicly apologized to the Paralympians. He also highlighted broader societal issues regarding the marginalization of people with disabilities.

The risk assessment report for the General Health System identifies 24 potential risks, 17 of which are considered high-level. Many of these relate to external factors such as abuses by providers and beneficiaries. A significant concern is the funding and payment for services rendered to non-eligible individuals. However, the measures taken seem to have reduced the high-level risks. The GHS fund appears to have solid viability until 2032.

Maria Angela Olguin aims to secure positive outcomes during the tripartite meeting with President Christodoulides and Tufan Erhurman. The focus is on the Cyprus issue and the resumption of negotiations. Christodoulides emphasizes that achieving Confidence-Building Measures (CBMs) is important but does not replace the essence of the problem. The Turkish Cypriot side appears ready to engage if certain conditions are met. Today, both leaders will present their positions to advance this issue.

The leadership of the Police has implemented a new work schedule for 1,000 police officers starting from January 1, 2026, which is expected to reduce their working hours. The working hours remain unchanged for those on shift, but rest days are gradually increasing. This new framework aims to impact the overtime payments made to police officers. According to the leadership, these changes stem from an agreement with union representatives and government decisions. The ministry aimed to align police working hours with those of other public employees.