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Severe Storm Hits Limassol

November 21, 2024

On Thursday night, a strong storm is affecting Limassol, accompanied by heavy rain and hail. The bad weather includes loud thunder and lightning illuminating the dark sky. The situation is expected to persist until the storm weakens.

The Joker lottery draw on November 21, 2024, distributes at least €1 million. The lucky numbers are 35, 23, 40, 24, and 29. The Joker number is 18. Participants are hoping to win.

The police of the British Bases in Akrotiri are investigating a case related to necrophilia involving a suspect who is a member of the Forces. He has been placed on administrative leave but has not been arrested. Authorities conducted a search at the suspect's residence and seized various electronic items and photographs. The police confirmed that the investigation is ongoing and that there are some inaccuracies in the reports circulating.

An 84-year-old is hospitalized in serious condition following a traffic accident in Limassol. He was riding his motorcycle when it collided with a semi-trailer truck, whose driver left the scene. The 56-year-old driver was later located and tested negative for alcohol. The elderly man's health is described as serious.

Russian President Vladimir Putin addressed the West, warning that Russia will respond symmetrically if tensions escalate. He acknowledged that Russia struck Ukraine with a ballistic missile and highlighted the disagreement between Kyiv and the West regarding the type of missile used. Zelensky accused Russia of using Ukraine as a testing ground, referring to allegations of an intercontinental ballistic missile being used. Relations between Russia and the West remain strained.

The Supreme Court of Cyprus made a historic decision regarding a case of property foreclosure, ruling in favor of a citizen after a lengthy legal process. This decision is significant as it is the first issued following recent judicial reforms. The Supreme Court determined that the citizen's appeal was not without merit, overturning the appellate court's ruling and remanding the case for further adjudication. This case highlights the challenges related to foreclosure processes of mortgaged properties in Cyprus.

In Plataniastasa, there is tension between the mayor and the priest regarding the duration of the bell ringing and the volume of the speakers. Residents complain that the bell rings excessively and the speakers are too loud, leading to strong reactions. This situation, which started after the elections, has escalated to higher authorities such as the metropolis and the police. The priest argues that the service must be audible, while residents are requesting peace and quiet.

59-year-old Olga was found dead in the apartment building where she lived, four days after she went missing. Her relatives had been desperately searching for her, combing various areas of Limassol. The police have cordoned off the area to conduct investigations, and forensic experts are expected to examine the circumstances of her death. This case has turned from a sad disappearance into a tragic discovery.

The cost of completing the Paphos-Poleos road is expected to rise by 20 million euros, reaching 90 million euros, according to the Minister of Transport. This increase is attributed to factors such as inflation and delays in project execution. The Minister stated that the contract allows for legal action against the contractor if the project is not completed on time. He emphasized that, although there is a setback, terminating the contract was the best option for the public interest.

The Parliament and car importers have agreed on a joint proposal for airbag inspections. The proposal includes checks during vehicle registration and periodic technical inspections. The aim is to address issues related to dangerous airbags in cars. The proposal will be discussed again next Thursday in the Transport Committee.

There are 16 cases currently under investigation by the police related to the Monastery of Abbacum and the Tamassos Metropolitan. One case has been registered in the Criminal Court, while nine others await guidance from the Legal Service. Allegations include bribery, labor exploitation, and violations of personal data. The investigation into the Metropolitan of Tamassos is advancing, with updates expected soon.

Ersin Tatar, the leader of the occupied territories, announced that the five-party meeting will take place at the end of January. He emphasized the need for recognition of the sovereignty of the pseudostate and reiterated his support for a two-state solution within the EU. Tatar also mentioned the potential for opening two crossings in Cyprus. The meeting will include representatives from Greece, Turkey, and potentially the United Kingdom.

A criminal file has been established against a minor from Cyprus, identified as the sender of threatening emails to Greek airports. The Electronic Crime Division in Greece located the suspect. The Cypriot police have forwarded the case to the Legal Service for further instructions. Due to the involvement of a minor, the legal procedures concerning children in conflict with the law are being followed.

59-year-old Olga Vitorovich from Limassol has been missing since Monday, November 18. Her relatives have made a dramatic appeal to the public for help in finding her. So far, the search efforts have not yielded results, but they continue with the assistance of volunteers and police. Concerns for Olga's safety grow every day.

The International Criminal Court has issued arrest warrants for Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and former Defense Minister Yoav Gallant. Both are accused of crimes against humanity and war crimes. The warrants relate to events that occurred from October 8, 2023, to May 20, 2024. This development follows months of deliberations.

Vandalism incidents on buses transporting students have increased, with some children using plastic guns and lighters. Authorities are concerned for the safety of the students, as events like students hanging outside the buses pose significant risks. To address these issues, a policy will be implemented to stop buses when vandalism occurs. Students are asking that all passengers shouldn't be affected due to the behavior of a few individuals.

The Minister of Transport, Alexis Vafeadis, announced that the Ministry is considering immobilizing vehicles with pending recalls due to defective airbags. There are practical issues concerning immobilization depending on the type of component. The proposal to cover transportation costs for citizens and funding for recall information is positively received by the Ministry. Suggestions for vehicle immobilization and financial support for dealerships are also being considered.

In 2024, apartment prices rose by 1.2%, while housing recorded a 0.8% decrease in purchase and rental prices. The demand for apartment rentals remains high with a 1.9% increase. Conversely, prices for warehouses and commercial properties have significantly decreased. The challenges in the Cypriot real estate market are attributed to economic factors and geopolitical tensions.

The mayor of Dromolaxia, Kypros Andronikou, responds to the absence of 11 municipal councilors from the Town Council and accuses them of trying to exclude AKEL from important committees. He explains that the current situation is hindering the progress of the Municipality. He calls for the relevant ministries and the Legal Service to intervene, denouncing the councilors' illegal actions. The mayor emphasizes that these actions harm the citizens of the area.

A minor in Cyprus has been identified as the sender of threatening emails regarding alleged explosives placed at airports in Greece. Authorities in Greece, in collaboration with Cypriot agencies, investigated and identified the individual. Charges have been filed against both the minor and the parents for neglect. Investigations led to the seizure of electronic devices from the minor's home.

New details have emerged regarding the fatal accident involving the 20-year-old law student, Irini Kontoyiorgou, in Egkomi. The car driven by a 20-year-old student was rented, and the driver was under the influence of alcohol. Irini's aunt urges young people to be cautious while driving, as traffic accidents are on the rise. The mother of the deceased is in a tragic state, having lost her only child.

Ukraine announced the launch of an intercontinental ballistic missile by Russia from the Astrakhan region during a morning attack. Ukrainian forces also managed to intercept six Kh-101 cruise missiles launched by Russia. Additionally, Ukraine has used British Storm Shadow missiles for attacks on Russian territory, seeking permission from the United States for their deployment. These missiles employ advanced technology, making them challenging to detect and destroy.

Relations in the Dromolaxia Municipal Council are tense following an altercation between the mayor and a council member. Eleven council members decided to boycott a recent meeting due to the mayor's behavior. They issued a letter asking for time to reflect and for the mayor to reconsider his stance. The situation calls for a serious reevaluation to foster cooperation within the council.

Cyprus is tasked with protecting critical infrastructures from wars and natural or man-made disasters. New EU regulations require enhancing resilience in various sectors, including healthcare and digital infrastructures. The Civil Defense is designated as the authority responsible for identifying and overseeing critical entities. The regulations include obligations for risk assessment and the uninterrupted provision of essential services.

Discussions in Parliament regarding the proposed installation of cameras in cities for crime control reveal divided opinions. Parties like DISY and DIKO support the idea, while AKEL and ELAM express concerns about personal data protection. The police representative warned that the lack of cameras has contributed to high crime rates. The Committee is requesting the government to prepare relevant legislation if deemed necessary.

The government is demanding that football clubs pay off debts totaling €35.6 million by the end of December 2024. The Tax Commissioner warns of legal action for non-compliance. Despite the existing payment plan, the tax obligations of the clubs continue to rise. The scheme allows repayment in 168 installments over 14 years.

Nicosia is waiting for updates regarding the Cyprus issue, particularly the intentions of the United Nations. Discussions about the opening of new crossing points continue as the President addressed the refugee situation, emphasizing that a resolution to the Cyprus problem is necessary for solving these issues. He also mentioned recent government actions regarding economic support for refugees. The situation remains complex, and the political dynamics in the occupied areas are closely monitored.

The political stance of Ankara regarding Cyprus seems to be shifting, with diminishing support for Ersin Tatar. There are rumors about the potential elevation of Tufan Erhurman as the new leader of the Turkish Cypriot community. The Republican Turkish Party (CTP) is notably backing a bi-zonal, bi-communal federation solution with certain conditions. In case of failure, alternative political solutions for the Turkish Cypriot community seem to be on the table.

POED is raising the issue of issuing suitability certificates for primary education schools due to recent incidents of child injuries. The organization has sent a letter to the Ministry of Education referencing legal obligations regarding workplace safety and health. It notes that similar certificates are issued for other venues, emphasizing the need for safety assurances in schools. Actions from the Ministry are expected soon to assess the suitability of school buildings.

The Dromolaxia-Menou municipality is facing serious disagreements within the City Council, evident through fights and accusations of violence. Mayor Kypros Andronikou and councilor Damianos Mina, both from the AKEL party, have stirred tension due to disputes over the name and seat of the new municipality. These ongoing disagreements had manifested even before the 2022 elections and have led to significant political conflicts. The article highlights the dysfunctionality of the new local governance model.

The Holy Synod has defrocked three monks from the Monastery of Abbacum, but there is a possibility of a new trial against them. The monks seem to be considering joining the Old Calendarists, although they have not directly confirmed this choice. They state that their brotherhood remains united and will continue their path regardless of developments in the Church. The situation remains uncertain regarding their future and the potential functioning of an independent monastery.

Yesterday's meeting at the Ministry of Labor did not result in an agreement for the renewal of the collective contract in the concrete sector. Workers rejected the minister's mediation proposal, asking for higher compensation for overtime work. Meanwhile, employers are open to discussion, awaiting clarifications. Efforts to reach an agreement will continue in a new meeting today morning.

A new bill proposed by three MPs aims to address the issue of airbag recalls and other vehicle component recalls. The proposal includes checking vehicles during technical inspections (MOT) for unsafe or defective parts. It also seeks to improve owner information regarding both new and imported vehicles. The Minister of Transport supports the bill, which is expected to enhance road safety.