Threatening messages were sent to a hospital and two hotels, demanding ransom to prevent a bomb from being activated. The hospital was asked for €25,000, while the hotels were asked for €75,000 in bitcoin. The police investigated the premises but found nothing suspicious. Authorities are now searching for the sender of the threats.
The President of South Korea, Yoon Suk-yeol, acknowledged his defeat and lifted the martial law following a parliamentary blockade by the opposition. This decision caused turmoil, with soldiers leaving the parliament and large demonstrations occurring. Leaders from both the ruling party and the opposition condemned the president's actions. The U.S. government is closely monitoring the situation and appears to have been caught off guard by the developments.
The Bora weather phenomenon has caused severe flooding in many neighborhoods of Cyprus, with muddy waters overwhelming the streets. Residents are complaining about the situation and comparing Limassol to Venice. There are strong storms and new warnings for the weather conditions. The phenomena are expected to continue in the area.
Metropolitan Isaiah provided two hours of testimony to the Economic Crime investigators, stating that he gave sufficient explanations. He does not rule out the possibility of returning with new information after reviewing what was presented to him. The investigators will examine his answers and may seek further testimonies if necessary. The case is nearing the final stages of investigation, and developments are expected soon.
The 64-year-old accused of sexually abusing minor girls did not show up in court again. The judge ordered his immediate arrest, as a warrant that remains unexecuted was issued due to his hospitalization. The indictment includes 15 charges against three girls, two of whom are minors. The accused will no longer be represented by a lawyer.
Agriculture Minister Maria Panayiotou clarified that there was no intention to silence anyone after the uproar caused by her directives. She stated it was a miscommunication that led to misunderstandings. Her objective is accurate and comprehensive information, despite the doubts that have arisen. She assured her collaboration with journalists and her commitment to freedom of the press.
In Paphos, over 30 kilograms of drugs were discovered in an operation by the YKAN. Two individuals have been arrested, and investigations are ongoing to identify any other involved parties. Authorities believe the large quantity indicates the presence of a drug trafficking network. Searches are also taking place in areas outside of Paphos.
A possible agreement for the return of the Parthenon Sculptures to Greece seems to be near. Law professor Irini Stamatoudi mentioned that negotiations are progressing, although the topic was not discussed during the meeting between Greek Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis and British leader Keir Starmer. There is a proposal for a cultural partnership, where Greece could send other antiquities to the British Museum. The return of the sculptures is significant for Greece's cultural heritage.
The Minister of Agriculture, Maria Panayiotou, has intensified control over her staff's statements by requiring that any contact with the media must be preceded by her guidance. This directive harkens back to negative practices of the past, where information was limited and controlled. Staff cannot make statements without the approval and guidance of the Minister. This decision raises concerns about transparency and press freedom.
The Metropolitan of Tamasos and Oreini, Isaias, testified this morning to the police regarding allegations of financial transactions. The testimony lasted over two hours and no details have been leaked. The investigation focuses on his bank dealings and the possibility of verifying cash deposits. The Metropolitan supports the investigative process to prove the legality of his actions.
In the Criminal Court of Nicosia, a witness testified against Joshua Poloso, claiming he murdered Angelos Perikleous. The witness, Panayiotis Argyris, said Poloso confessed to shooting Perikleous over a motive involving €100,000 and a watch. He also claimed Poloso attempted to involve him in a plan to mislead investigators. The trial continues with cross-examination of the witness.
In Evrychou on Tuesday morning, a suspicious object was found outside the Community Council, triggering an alert. Explosive experts determined it was a high-powered explosive device that did not detonate. The device was neutralized, and investigations are ongoing by the police. The Morfou CID is handling the case.
A committee of the U.S. Congress concluded that the most plausible explanation for the origin of Covid-19 is a leak from a laboratory in Wuhan, China, after a two-year investigation. While both Democratic and Republican members of the committee agreed on various points, they stated that the possibility is not a conspiracy theory. However, Chinese officials countered that the report lacks credibility and is not supported by substantial evidence. The international scientific community continues to investigate the origins of the pandemic, with no clear conclusions reached yet.
The Police have warned the public about the circulation of counterfeit euro banknotes of €5, €10, €20, and €50. These counterfeit notes have repeating serial numbers, making them easier to detect. With the holiday season approaching, citizens are urged to carefully check the banknotes they receive. The Police provide guidance on the security features of genuine banknotes through the websites of the Central Banks.
PASYXE decided to approve the new collective agreement for the hotel industry after initially rejecting the proposal. In a general assembly, its members endorsed the revised mediation proposal from the Minister of Labor. Worker unions and STEK had already accepted the proposal. As a result, the negotiation process has successfully concluded.
A witness testifying in the murder case of Angelos Perikleous is afraid to testify in front of the defendant, Joshua Poloso. The court decided that the witness would give their testimony from the stand without the presence of Poloso to ensure the quality of their statement. This decision was made after a request from the prosecution, indicating that the witness's anxiety could affect their testimony. The defense attorney countered that the witness has a criminal record, but the court accepted the prosecution's position.
Boat owners and ferry operators in Larnaca are dissatisfied with the transport minister's responses and plan to close the port and marina in protest. They demand a reduction in docking fees and more transparency from the government on this issue. Their statement criticized the minister for vagueness and lack of clarity. A warning protest will take place soon on a date to be announced.
The Commissioner of Transparency is calling for the Independent Authority against Corruption to be transformed into a legal entity under public law to ensure its complete independence. A significant issue is the understaffing of the Authority, which currently has only 6 members, making it difficult to carry out its duties effectively. The lack of ability to hire staff from within the Authority limits its functionality. The Commissioner emphasizes that the independence of the Authority must be ensured through this transformation.
Starting today, workers in the ready-mixed concrete sector are returning to work, but only with employers who sign a new agreement. This decision was made during their general assembly in Limassol, with the support of trade unions. Many companies have already expressed their readiness to sign the new collective agreement. However, issues are expected in smaller businesses, as some workers will continue their strike.
Costas Kytheriotis, the president of the Ready-Mix Concrete Manufacturers Association, will call the unions to sign the new collective agreement. The signing will occur after the employees' general assembly. Other large companies are expected to sign, while some smaller ones will not. Employees will return to work with employers who sign the agreement.
The application process for solar water heater grants for 2024 has begun. Up to 1,500 applications will be accepted, with grants ranging from 500 to 900 euros depending on the type of residence. Approval is required before installation begins. Installations must be carried out by certified installers listed in the relevant registry.
Ersin Tatar believes that Nikos Christodoulides' push for NATO is related to his low popularity. Tatar accuses Christodoulides of trying to create a new agenda to regain support from the Greek-Cypriot people. He argues that these statements aim at opposing Turkey, highlighting Turkey's significance in NATO. Tatar urges Christodoulides to acknowledge realities and cooperate for the benefit of both communities.
The Bora weather system is expected to reach Cyprus weakened, bringing local thunderstorms and strong winds. The Meteorological Service issued a yellow alert for heavy rainfall and possible hail. Thunderstorms may be intense, with strong gusts of wind. Temperatures will remain around 17 degrees in coastal areas and about 8 in the high mountains.
Europe and Cyprus are aging, with individuals over 65 making up a significant portion of the population. The elderly experience fewer healthy years, largely due to the pandemic, which has increased mortality rates. Doctors are also aging, raising concerns about future healthcare. There is a need to strengthen health services to meet the increased demands.
The government decided to lease the management of Larnaca's port and marina to private entities for five years, raising concerns among local stakeholders. They noted a lack of prior information and the risk of project delays. The Minister of Transport assured that there will be regulations governing the manager's responsibilities to ensure that planned projects proceed. Local entities are still worried about potential obstacles that may arise.
MP Stavros Papadouris proposes installing cameras in vehicles to record incidents and accidents. The aim is to clarify responsibility and the proposal will be discussed by the Parliamentary Transport Committee. Concerns about personal data protection have been raised, leading to the invitation of the Data Protection Commissioner. The cameras may also be useful in other contexts, such as instances of police violence.
The Monastery of Stavrovouni reported unauthorized works at a wind farm in the Stavrovouni area, part of the Natura 2000 Network. Inspectors from the Department of Environment confirmed the claims and requested that the development company halt its operations. The monastery expressed concern over the impact on the natural environment and called for an investigation into possible violations. The area serves as an important corridor for migratory birds and is now being degraded due to construction activities.
Anita Dimitriou and Averof Neofytou met for a lunch organized by a mutual friend, showing a positive atmosphere between them. This initiative could be seen as a step towards a fresh start in their relationship, though significant differences remain. Moreover, Averof criticized the government and made bold statements, and it is likely that new moves will follow from both sides.
The Ministry of Labor is blaming the employers for the collapse of negotiations regarding the collective agreement in the ready-mixed concrete sector. The disbanding of the Association of Ready-Mixed Concrete Manufacturers complicates the negotiation process since companies will negotiate individually. Workers are continuing their strike, facing pressure for pay as the holidays approach. The response of trade unions is anticipated with interest.