The Israeli army is escalating attacks against Hezbollah in Lebanon, urging residents in southern Beirut suburbs to evacuate due to planned bombings. The U.S. confirmed that Israel has begun limited ground operations. Meanwhile, Lebanese forces are retreating from their positions near the border. Israeli officials warn that the area is considered a forbidden military zone.
Israel has launched limited ground operations against Hezbollah in southern Lebanon, as reported by the U.S. State Department. The Israeli army is targeting Hezbollah infrastructure near the borders. The operations include massive fire from tanks and have already begun on Lebanese territory. Access to areas near the border is strictly prohibited for civilians.
A strike took place at RIK due to the non-payment of pension benefits to retirees from the institution. The strike resulted in a black screen and music during the news broadcast, instead of news. The unions announced that they would consider further measures if the issue is not resolved. Retirees remain without their due benefits, affecting their financial situation.
The Limassol Drug Enforcement Unit is conducting investigations regarding a large quantity of drugs found in the possession of a foreign national. Nearly 80 kilograms of cannabis were discovered in two of the individual's apartments. One arrest has been made, and investigations are ongoing for potential additional arrests. President Christodoulides emphasized the need for increased attention to drug issues, particularly among the youth.
The spokesperson for the UN Secretary-General announced that an informal trilateral meeting will take place in the US in October. The leaders of the Greek-Cypriot and Turkish-Cypriot communities will participate in the meeting. The purpose of the meeting is to exchange views on the progress of the Cyprus issue. The exact date will be announced soon.
Israel has informed the US about a planned limited-scale ground operation in Lebanon. This operation aims to clear military infrastructure near the borders to protect Israeli communities. The US believes that eliminating Nasrallah could enhance security but emphasizes the importance of diplomacy to reduce tension. The upcoming operation appears to be preparation for an invasion, which would be the fourth in 50 years.
During the inauguration ceremony of the new Chief of Police, Themistocles Arnaouti, and Deputy Chief, Panikos Stavrou, President Christodoulides emphasized the need to enhance security in Cypriot society. He urged the new officials to focus on combating drugs, crime, and hooliganism. Additionally, he addressed issues of corruption, terrorism, and immigration, highlighting the complexity of the Police's role today. The new Chief pledged to work towards restoring unity and a sense of safety in society.
42-year-old inmate Dorous Theofanous was arrested in Limassol after attempting to escape with the help of an accomplice. During the interrogation, he stated that he wanted to get a 'breath of freedom' and did not have a complete escape plan. The police found a mobile phone and money on him. Investigations are ongoing into the escape case.
Eleni Pekri, 56, lost her life in a car accident on the Nicosia-Limassol highway on Monday morning. Her vehicle collided with a 34-year-old man's car, who suffered minor injuries. Police and firefighters responded to the scene to rescue her. The circumstances of the collision are being investigated by the Nicosia Traffic Department.
A successful police operation in Nicosia led to the arrest of a suspect for attempted murder at an embassy. The apprehended individual, holding a Portuguese passport, was wanted under an international warrant. The arrest involved undercover officers posing as embassy staff to avoid raising suspicions. The process for extraditing the suspect to Portugal is now underway.
The salary increase for low-paid employees in the public sector will exceed 1.5%, with those in the second tier receiving 1.5% and low-paid workers getting up to 2.4%. The specified raise starts from October 1 and is justified by the strong economic performance and surpluses. However, most lawmakers express concern about the rising public payroll, with the DISY party planning to vote against the bill.
The Health Insurance Organization has announced the commencement of procedures for the flu vaccination. Personal doctors are called upon to prepare a list of eligible individuals belonging to vulnerable groups, prioritizing those over 60 years old. Vaccinations are expected to start around October 7, with distributions occurring throughout November. Citizens are urged to cooperate with their doctors for information regarding vaccination.
The government stated that responsibilities related to the escape of inmate Dorous Theophanous have been assigned. Government spokesman Konstantinos Letymbiotis clarified that Justice Minister Marios Hartsiotis is not responsible for the operational actions of the police. On the contrary, he is seen as suitable to promote the modernization of the police. The President expects the new police leadership to provide a roadmap for the restructuring and reform of the force.
Deputy Police Chief Dimitris Dimitriou is leaving his position with bitterness after being informed of his dismissal via phone and seeing it reported in the media before he could tell his family. He feels disappointed by the impolite manner of the announcement and states that he served the police for over 40 years with a clear conscience. He expresses a wish that he had at least been asked to resign and properly say goodbye to his colleagues. In the end, he thanked his colleagues and believes his service was significant for society.
A 42-year-old life prisoner, Doros Theofanous, was arrested after a three-day manhunt in Limassol. The arrest was aided by a Syrian who had hosted him and recognized him from the police search. The fugitive tried to hide but was found by police forces without resisting. Although he was unarmed, he will face additional charges in court.
Parents of a middle school girl in Paphos reported an incident of physical and verbal violence against their daughter by five classmates. The situation reportedly stemmed from a minor disagreement among the girls. Despite intervention from the Ministry of Education and the police, the parents claim their daughter received new threats to withdraw her complaint. The situation is escalating with the involvement of authorities.
Convicted life prisoner Doros Theofanous was arrested in Amathus and is returning to the Central Prison. He does not need to appear in court for a detention order since he is already serving a life sentence. A new legal process will follow regarding the offenses committed during his escape. The police are continuing their investigations into the circumstances of his escape and his movements.
Cypriot buyers are shifting towards mid-range apartments due to high housing prices and stagnant income levels. Developers are responding to the growing demand by focusing on prime locations. Despite challenges, the apartment market is expected to remain dynamic and attractive, especially for young couples. However, high prices may complicate financing options for many.
Inflation remains high, with prices increasing by 19.2% over the past four years. Food prices have seen an even greater rise at 25.7%. The government plans to end support measures, such as the subsidy for electricity and the zero VAT rate on essential goods. Consumers are buying cautiously, even though the rate of price increases has recently slowed down.
In the Joker draw on September 29, a lucky winner won €18.6 million using a random selection of numbers in Ptolemaida. Two additional lucky tickets won €100,000 in the second category, with one ticket found in the Nicosia district. The next amount to be distributed is €1,000,000. The winning numbers were: 15, 19, 25, 33, 43 and Joker 1.
The fire in Xylokastro, Corinthia, has led to a tragic outcome with the discovery of two charred bodies. The men were en route to help at a nearby farm, despite firefighters urging them to evacuate. Firefighting forces are still battling the flames, with residents from six villages evacuated. Schools in the area will remain closed for safety reasons.
The 42-year-old escapee, Doros Theofanous, is set to appear in the Paphos District Court today after being arrested at the coastal area of Amathus. He was apprehended under a court warrant, and no incriminating items were found in his possession. The police conducted coordinated efforts to locate him since the day of his escape. Investigations continue to clarify the circumstances of his escape and any potential accomplices.
A large protest took place outside the British Bases in Akrotiri, with citizens demanding an end to the Israeli attacks in Gaza and Southern Lebanon. Organizers, including the Pancyprian Peace Council, condemned military activities and support from the US and the EU. Speakers emphasized the responsibilities of the Cypriot government amidst these events. Participants are calling for the removal of the Bases from Cyprus and express solidarity with the Palestinian people.
Nicosia awaits official updates from the United Nations regarding the outcomes of the Guterres-Tatar meeting. President Christodoulides emphasizes that the restart of negotiations depends solely on the Turkish side and stresses the need to keep discussions within the framework established by Security Council resolutions. He also expresses Cyprus's confidence in the processes and the potential benefits that could arise from a successful resolution of the Cyprus issue. The situation remains on hold for further developments from the United Nations.
Ersin Tatar, the leader of the Turkish Cypriots, met with UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres and outlined conditions for a future meeting with President Christodoulides. He called for recognition of his equal standing as a leader and sovereignty for the pseudo-state. Tatar expressed that federal negotiations have failed to yield results and that new approaches should be considered. He emphasized the importance of cooperation and dialogue, respecting the rights of the Turkish Cypriots.
The use of vitamins has become a trend, but excessive consumption can be dangerous. Proper use of vitamins is beneficial, especially when intake from food is difficult. Experts warn that vitamins are not 'strong medications’ and excessive consumption can harm the body. It is important to understand the difference between water-soluble and fat-soluble vitamins.
The operation of the Akamas National Forest Park is delayed, resulting in the road leading to the 'Blue Lagoon' beach remaining open, despite several accidents. A recent committee meeting discussed road maintenance and planned safety measures. Despite concerns for safety, it was decided to keep the road open with usage restrictions. All work will be supervised to ensure environmental protection.
The demand for real estate investments in Larnaca remains high despite the cancellation of the port and marina development agreement. Lebanese investors are primarily looking for apartments and houses due to the safety that Larnaca offers. Increased activity from foreign investors is boosting demand across various areas of the city. However, there are concerns about rising property prices.
President Christodoulides took decisive actions following a police fiasco that involved the escape of a life-sentenced inmate. He decided to dismiss the Chief and Deputy Chief of Police and appointed new leaders to replace them. The incident highlighted the weaknesses in police leadership and eroded public trust. While no casualties resulted from the police's failures, it exposed significant security concerns.