After the fall of Assad's regime, many fake images from the Sednaya prison circulated online, mostly generated by Artificial Intelligence to misinform the public. Expert Ibrahim Al Assil emphasized that the atrocities of Assad's regime are real, but false images contribute to misinformation. DW's fact-checking team has reported that some of these images and videos have been debunked, revealing the truth behind the claims. It is crucial to distinguish between real information and manipulated content.
The NDAA 2025 bill was approved by the Senate with a significant majority, allowing Cyprus to participate in U.S. military exercises. This development strengthens the ties between Cyprus and the U.S. and grants the Cypriot National Guard the right to partake in multilateral exercises until 2027. Amendment 1233 extends security force training in Eastern Europe. These changes are seen as important for the region's security.
A 17-year-old was found with drugs outside the Apostle Andrew Church in Mesa Geitonia. Authorities discovered 26 transparent nylon packages of cannabis, weighing 875 grams, hidden in bushes. The minor was arrested and is being held for three days, with further examinations and statements expected for the case. He is charged with illegal possession and distribution of drugs.
The Supreme Court decided not to annul the coroner's report regarding the case of Thanasis Nikolaou, despite finding grounds for doing so. The decision was based on the need to protect public interest and justice. The report indicates that Nikolaou's death resulted from criminal activity, but it cannot be used legally in any proceedings. This situation leads to differing interpretations from legal experts and both parties involved in the case.
In the District Court of Nicosia, three suspects related to armed robberies at kiosks in Tseri and Ayios Dometios are facing procedural issues. The 21-year-old Syrian suspect alleged that the 22-year-old third suspect threatened them before the proceedings began. Suspicion is confirmed by CCTV that links them to one of the robberies, as their vehicle was reported stolen. The judge emphasized the need for authorities to take the threat seriously.
Honda has announced a recall of 10,851 vehicles for the replacement of Takata airbags. Vehicle owners are advised not to use their vehicles until they receive instructions from Galatariotis Motors. A list of the affected vehicles is available on the Department of Road Transport's website. Owners are encouraged to contact the distributor for further details.
A workplace accident occurred in Nicosia involving a 67-year-old man. Charalambos Kotsapas fell from a balcony undergoing renovation when part of it collapsed. Emergency services responded, but the man was pronounced dead at the hospital. Authorities are investigating the circumstances surrounding the incident.
The Road Safety Council has decided to increase fines for serious traffic violations. The increases affect three offenses: failure to wear helmets, seatbelts, and using a mobile phone while driving. The Minister of Justice emphasized the need to align the severity of the offense with the penalty to help reduce accidents. The aim is to prevent serious situations that endanger human lives.
A pistol of Turkish origin was found in Limassol, hidden in a military-style bag. Authorities are conducting further investigations into the other weapons and their potential use in bomb attacks. The recovered items will be examined to determine any links to organized crime. The police are concerned that the weapons could be used for criminal activities.
Omonia has announced that it has requested the removal of referee Ioannis Christodoulou, accusing him of making incorrect officiating decisions. They claim that his decisions influenced the outcome of the match against Ethnikos. The statement is strongly critical of officiating and the leadership of the Cyprus Football Association. This situation adds pressure to the football administration.
The Cabinet has approved a revision of the criteria for housing plans concerning refugees, aiming to enhance support. Income limits for beneficiaries are increased by €5,000, with adjustments to other support terms for families. The new criteria will come into effect on January 1, 2025, seeking to strengthen the government's housing policy. Pending applications will be assessed under the new provisions.
The Supreme Court rejected Panikos Stavrianou's request to annul the report regarding the death of Thanasis Nikolaou. Although a legal error by the coroner was noted, the decision was based on public interest. Stavrianou reported a blow to freedom of speech, while his lawyer stated that her client was a winner. The ruling was not unanimous.
Stella Michailidou, the president of the AIDS Support Center, has been released on bail after her case was referred to the Criminal Court in Nicosia. Her first court appearance is scheduled for February 7. She faces serious charges, including fraud-related offenses and conspiracy. During the investigation, she exercised her right to remain silent.
Forensic expert Panikos Stavrianos expressed his disappointment after the Supreme Court rejected his request to annul the findings of the coroner's inquiry. Despite the court acknowledging that his rights were violated, no corrective action was taken, which he described as unprecedented. He emphasized the importance of freedom of speech and stated that this situation has harmed democracy. Stavrianos remains determined to pursue legal avenues to address what he sees as a flawed decision.
The 'Digital Assistant' is a new Generative AI application launched on the gov.cy portal, aimed at improving communication between citizens and the government. Initially, it will assist with inquiries related to Social Insurance Services, with plans to expand its capabilities over time. Citizens can submit their questions in writing or orally, without needing to provide personal information. The Assistant will continuously train and evolve based on user interactions.
Banks in Cyprus are set to announce reductions in fees and interest rates for vulnerable groups such as retirees and young people. Finance Minister Makis Keravnos stated that these changes will positively impact many thousands of citizens. He also mentioned plans for installing ATMs in remote areas without fees for customers using machines from other banks. Ongoing dialogue with banks aims to find further supportive measures.
Adriana Nikolaou, the mother of Thanasis Nikolaou, expressed satisfaction with the Supreme Court's decision, which rejected Panikos Stavrianou's appeal. For her, this decision proves that justice exists as she remains committed to the findings of the criminal investigation. She is now awaiting the results from the investigations by the two criminal investigators.
The Supreme Court rejected the request of forensic expert Panikos Stavrianos to annul the report of the death investigator concerning the death of Thanasis Nikolaou. Although a legal error was identified, the decision was made for reasons of public interest. The judges emphasized the importance of continuing the criminal investigation for justice. Additionally, two other death investigation reports have already been annulled.
President Nikos Christodoulides discussed banking issues and housing policy during the final Cabinet meeting of 2023. Announcements from banks are expected regarding fee reductions and interest rate adjustments for specific groups of citizens. Additionally, the income limits for housing plans aimed at displaced persons have been increased. The government's budget emphasizes support for citizens and sustainable development.
A 64-year-old doctor denies the charges against him for causing the death of a 33-year-old man who suddenly died in March 2023. The accused reportedly prescribed antibiotics instead of referring the patient to a cardiologist despite alarming symptoms. The court procedure is set for June 2025, and the doctor has been required to post a €10,000 bail. The young man had visited the doctor with serious complaints shortly before his death.
A 17-year-old motorcyclist is in critical condition after a traffic accident in Limassol. The collision occurred when a car driven by a 41-year-old crashed into the teenager's motorcycle. He was taken to a private hospital for treatment, and his condition is serious. Authorities are investigating the circumstances of the accident.
President Christodoulides proposes a meeting with Tatar to discuss new crossing points. Despite Tatar's objections, there is optimism from the UN representative about positive developments. The leaders aim for good preparation to reach agreements. Ongoing talks are showing positive signs from both sides.
Larnaca is in discussions with the universities of Metsovio and Kapodistrias to establish their branches. Initial contacts have shown a positive disposition from the universities. At the same time, developments are expected regarding the creation of a School of Marine Sciences at Mackenzie, with the feasibility study already approved. The Municipality of Larnaca aims to secure EU funding for the project.
The police arrested three young men, two aged 22 and one aged 21, for robberies at kiosks in the Nicosia district. The robberies occurred in Tseri and Agios Dometios, with the perpetrators firing shots in the air to intimidate. Fortunately, there were no injuries, and the investigation is ongoing to identify other participants. The arrested individuals are set to appear today before the Nicosia District Court.
The taxation of bank super profits has sparked public debate, impacting borrowers and pension funds. There is inequality in the consequences of measures taken to save the financial sector. Borrowers in Cyprus are in a difficult position as they lack the legal means to challenge banks without necessary protections. While banks received substantial financial support, smaller banks and their customers did not receive the same backing.
The Department of Road Transport is finalizing contacts to develop an action plan concerning the recall of vehicles related to Takata airbags. A three-member advisory committee has been formed to collaborate with the distributor for MAZDA regarding the MAZDA DEMIO vehicles. These actions aim to expedite the completion of recalls and ensure passenger safety. Experts will explore alternative solutions for managing the situation until the recalls are completed.
Starting today, the procedures for specialized medications are changing and will be submitted through the Health Insurance Organization. Patients with serious chronic and rare diseases will have access to these treatments via the GESY. The process will be electronic, and specialist doctors will be responsible for the applications. Urgent cases will temporarily be submitted to the Ministry of Health until 2025.
The European Observatory report reveals serious deficiencies in long-term care services in Cyprus, forcing citizens to pay high amounts for private services. Care needs are increasing as the population ages. Despite the legal coverage under GeSY, accessibility restrictions lead to inadequate care. The situation is alarming, as the number of elderly individuals is expected to increase significantly in the coming years.
The study by the American firm Curtis, Mallet-Prevost, Colt and Mosle LLP raises serious concerns about the viability of the Cyprus-Crete electricity interconnection. It specifically points to economic uncertainties and geopolitical pressures from Turkey that cast doubt on the project's implementation. Expected investments and loans have not materialized as initially planned. These concerns may impede the progress of the interconnection.