Five years after the fatal traffic accident on the Kantu-Souniou road, the Limassol Court sentenced the responsible driver to two and a half years in prison. The accident resulted in the death of a 75-year-old man and serious injuries to other drivers and passengers. The judge emphasized the need for stricter penalties and highlighted that traffic accidents are a serious issue in Cyprus. The decision reflects the urgent need for improvement in road safety.
Security forces in Ankara neutralized the perpetrator of a terrorist attack that occurred at the Turkish Aircraft Industry Corporation (TUSAŞ) facility. The attack took place during a shift change for security personnel. Unfortunately, there were casualties and injuries as a result of the attack. The Interior Minister stated that the situation is serious.
Cyberattacks have disrupted the TAXISnet website, affecting tax return submissions from abroad. The Tax Department has announced an extension for the submission deadline as the system is inaccessible for some taxpayers. The coming days will be crucial for updates on the status of the system and potential new dates. All taxpayers will have the time they need to submit their returns without penalties.
Finance Minister Makis Keraunos announced that a new package of measures against inflation will be presented next month. The measures will be targeted and aim to alleviate the burdens for vulnerable groups and the middle class. The government continuously monitors inflation and plans to make decisions before Christmas. Proposals from the supporting parties are under consideration for shaping the final measures.
The Parliament has not received information about the donors of the fund managed by the President's spouse since 2016, according to members of the parliamentary committee. A law proposal for transparency has been submitted but has not been approved due to a reference made by the President to the Supreme Constitutional Court. Members of Parliament express concerns about transparency and the undermining of democracy. Some MPs defended the President's right to refer to legislative processes.
An investigation is underway regarding a serious injury to an 8-year-old at a school, with statements taken from parents, teachers, and doctors. The incident occurred during recess when the student was injured by broken glass from a door. The Aradippou School Board expressed its sorrow and emphasized that the safety of children is a top priority. So far, the incident does not appear to be related to bullying.
A 16-year-old student was seriously injured while attempting to jump over the school's iron fence and got impaled. The fire department was called for his rescue because the metal piece remained lodged in his body. The student was rushed to Paphos Hospital where he underwent surgery. The police and the school's administration are investigating the circumstances of the incident.
Authorities have arrested a 29-year-old football player suspected of being involved in a prostitution network in Cyprus. The player is accused of managing escort advertisements and paying for their promotion. The case came to light after a trafficking victim filed a complaint. So far, four arrests have been made and one more person is still being sought.
Mike Jeffries, the former CEO of Abercrombie & Fitch, and his British partner face charges for organizing a sex trafficking ring exploiting men. The operation reportedly provided victims with either money or prospects for modeling careers. The indictments describe disturbing and exploitative practices, with many victims unaware of the true nature of the events. The investigation highlights the grave nature of the situation and the extensive criminal network involved.
Large quantities of foul-smelling water have been detected in the Akrotiri Salt Lake, raising concerns about environmental damage. The environmental organization Terra Cypria reports wastewater disposal in the area. Authorities are working together to identify the source of the problem and take necessary measures. Initial analyses indicate signs of pollution that threaten the wetland.
President Christodoulidis stated that his proposal for three negotiation tables regarding the Cyprus issue is his own. He clarified that this proposal did not originate from the UN Secretary-General but is an indication of readiness for upcoming negotiations. He also mentioned that developments from the EU are expected, and he is prepared to meet with the leader of the Turkish Cypriot community. A waiting period is planned for positive outcomes in the discussions.
A clergyman from the Metropolis of Tamassos is under investigation due to accusations of suspicious relationships and messages exchanged with monks from the Monastery of Abbacum. The monks allege that the allegations are aimed at hurting Metropolitan Isaiah of Tamassos. The Investigative Committee is examining the case and will make decisions based on the evidence presented. The atmosphere is tense, particularly due to previous incidents that have affected the Church.
European Parliament member Phidias Panagiotou addresses the low student turnout at the protest against the ban on mobile phones in schools, attributing it to threats from the Ministry of Education regarding unexcused absences. He emphasized the importance of supporting students rather than instilling fear. Despite the challenges, 70 students participated in the protest, which he viewed as a positive outcome. He encouraged students to contact him if they faced any consequences from school.
The trial for the two monks from the Abbey of Abbacum has been postponed, as the defense requested time to review new evidence. The court has scheduled the next hearing for November 21, 2024. The monks are facing serious charges, including conspiracy and theft, and are currently free under certain restrictions.
The police are searching for a small gray car that was seen in the area where the fire broke out in Kouris. Authorities are investigating leads suggesting that the fire was deliberately set. The fire has been fully brought under control, and there are no serious risks reported. Firefighting teams remain on standby for any potential flare-ups.
The Government is responding to criticism with President Nikos Christodoulides announcing over 20 support actions for the Troodos mountainous region, with a budget of over €30 million. The announcement was made in the village of Amiandos as the first stop of a tour across all districts. Key proposals include upgrading health services and expanding school programs in rural areas. Additionally, funding will be provided for fire protection and other necessary infrastructure.
The meeting of the Board of Directors of the CCCI with the Minister of Labor focused on labor shortages in Cyprus and the employment strategy for third-country nationals. The CCCI requested work permits to be granted and for all students to be allowed to work without restrictions. They also expressed disagreement regarding collective agreements and called for legislative regulation of strikes in essential services. Lastly, the need for a new system for calculating the cost of living allowance (COLA) in the labor market was discussed.
Israeli forces confirmed that Hashem Safieddin, a potential successor to the Hezbollah leader, was killed in a bombing in Beirut. Attacks are ongoing, targeting several Hezbollah positions, resulting in deaths and injuries. Residents in the area have been ordered to evacuate for their safety. These strikes have intensified since late September.
Two investigations have begun regarding the serious injury of an 8-year-old student at a primary school in Larnaca. The child was injured by shattered glass during a break and required surgery. The police are looking into the possibility of negligence by school supervisors and whether the incident is related to play or bullying. The school principal denies any bullying allegations, stating it was an accident.
Today, party leaders from the ruling coalition are meeting with the Finance Minister to discuss support measures against rising prices. The parties are proposing electricity subsidies and changes to VAT calculations. Their aim is to support vulnerable groups and the middle class. They expect updates on government plans to reduce energy costs.
The Ministry of Education is preparing a circular regarding mobile phone use in schools, aiming to avoid tensions between teachers and students. The decision to ban mobile use during school hours will implement a grace period with gradual measures. Expulsions will be a last resort and only in specific cases. The goal is to maintain a pedagogical dialogue in schools.
The UN Secretary-General, Antonio Guterres, proposes the establishment of three separate tables for negotiations concerning Cyprus. These categories involve governance, guarantees, and security. The Greek Cypriot side supports the involvement of the UK, while the Turkish Cypriot side opposes it. Guterres wants to lead the process and suggest an attractive perspective for Cyprus.
A new wing is set to open in early November at the Central Prisons, accommodating 240 inmates and alleviating overcrowding issues. Justice Minister Marios Harciotis expressed satisfaction with the progress of the renovations, which have dramatically transformed the prison's condition. Additionally, further plans are underway to enhance the penal system, with a new separate wing expected by 2028. The conversion from an open prison to a closed one is part of a broader strategy already in place.
Yasser Aarar participated in the murder of Dimitris Andronikos due to a personal debt. Aarar has admitted his guilt and will be a key witness for the prosecution. In the recent trial, three other defendants also confessed to their involvement in the murder. Aarar expressed his remorse for his actions, mentioning his family and children.
The new Farmer's Card is set to be introduced in 2025 to enhance farmers' liquidity and facilitate access to financing. The Ministry of Agriculture is collaborating with commercial banks to create favorable lending tools. The total cost for supporting farmers amounts to €18 million for the period 2025–2029, with a focus on young farmers.