An action by the far-right party AfD in Germany has sparked significant controversy as they sent flyers shaped like airline tickets to migrants. The flyers state they are a 'one-way ticket' with a departure date coinciding with the election day. The leader of AfD promised that if elected, they would close the borders and freeze asylum processes. This story has gone viral in social media and has drawn strong reactions from the public.
President Nikos Christodoulides commented on the death of a 24-year-old Pakistani from a police shooting, stating that anyone with information should come forward to the authorities. He emphasized that the police are conducting an investigation and warned against speculation regarding the case. Additionally, he noted the alignment of AKEL and DISY in their criticism of the Minister of Justice. The loss of life is a serious matter that requires careful consideration.
The government is considering increasing patrols and cameras along the Green Line, as stated by Deputy Minister of Migration, Nikola Ioannidis. This comes in light of recent incidents and the use of the area by criminal elements. The Deputy Minister emphasized the need for effective monitoring to combat illegal activities. The proposals are currently under consideration.
Criminal investigator Ninos Kekos has requested the appointment of a second forensic expert to conduct a new autopsy on the body of a 24-year-old Pakistani. Developments are anticipated in the case, as the previously appointed investigator for disciplinary misconduct will be replaced. This process may lead to new insights regarding the case. The Cabinet is expected to decide on the replacement for the Director of the Ministry of Agriculture soon.
A taxi driver from the Greek Cypriot side was arrested in the occupied territories for smuggling two women from Nepal without proper documents. The women were found on the hood of his car and were arrested at the illegal airport in Tymbou. The taxi driver admitted to making a serious mistake regarding his actions and will remain in prison until his case is heard. Reports indicate he received 200 euros for transporting them.
A new bill for the adoption of children is being presented for approval in the Cabinet, modernizing the legal framework for adoption. The concept of 'professional' foster care is introduced, where professionals will provide specialized services for children with disabilities. The aim of the bill is to upgrade the services provided to children under state care. The legislation has been submitted by the Deputy Ministry of Social Welfare and is expected to contribute to the ongoing development of the adoption system.
The government is considering an increase in the allowance for those trapped, which has remained the same since 2007. Representatives of the trapped are calling for more support, as current contributions do not meet their needs. It is expected that the allowance will rise from €371 to €480. This increase will be discussed at the Cabinet meeting soon.
The police issued four arrest warrants related to the Potamia case concerning foreign nationals. Authorities are trying to locate a rental vehicle used in an incident where a 24-year-old Pakistani was shot and killed by police gunfire. Investigations are progressing rapidly, and the discovery of the vehicle's details is expected to provide more answers. Information has also been shared with the Pakistani ambassador regarding the citizen's death.
A major case of financial fraud is unfolding involving a 45-year-old insurance intermediary, who is accused of deceiving dozens of clients with fake insurance policies. Victims lost hundreds of thousands of euros, as the suspect promised high returns and provided them with fake checks when they attempted to withdraw money. An investigation by the Limassol CID revealed serious irregularities, with a discrepancy of €719,524. The suspect has been detained for seven days as authorities continue their investigation.
New details reveal the involvement of a 54-year-old lawyer and a 44-year-old police officer in the escape case of a Swedish man from a clinic in Larnaca. They face serious charges including corruption and abuse of power. The legal proceedings highlight evidence of their involvement in the escape and other unethical actions. The Swedish man allegedly claimed that his lawyer suggested a sham marriage to gain legal ties to Cyprus.
Developments are expected in the Potamia case regarding the murder of a Pakistani man by a police officer during an operation against a human trafficking ring. Investigators have identified the rental vehicle used by the traffickers and the rental office. Arrests are anticipated as the vehicle is crucial for the case's progress. The Pakistani ambassador was informed about the situation and seemed satisfied with the explanations provided.
Hamas appears to have agreed to a ceasefire plan in Gaza, which includes the release of dozens of hostages. Israeli officials report progress in negotiations, currently in the finalization stage. The proposed agreement indicates that Israel will exchange female soldiers for Palestinian prisoners. Humanitarian aid will also be allowed during the initial phase of the ceasefire.
The lawyer of forensic expert Nikolaos Charalambous, Theofanis Andreou, claims that his client is a scapegoat for political maneuvers by government officials and lawmakers. He questions why the forensic expert was placed on leave, emphasizing the lack of legal framework for autopsies. Andreou noted that Charalambous acted lawfully and performed an autopsy that identified the bullet as the cause of death. Furthermore, he warned of legal actions against the state if injustices against his client continue.
A trial concerning the escape of a Swedish man, his lawyer, and a police officer is set to begin at the Permanent Criminal Court in Larnaca. All three face serious charges, including conspiracy to commit a felony. The Swedish man is also charged with escape from a private clinic and money laundering. The proceedings are ongoing, with the defendants challenging their custody.
Severe weather is hitting Greece with low temperatures, snow, and heavy rain. Large areas of Northern Greece are covered in snow. Significant damages have occurred in Kitries, Messinia, where roads were blocked by debris. In Attica, Poseidonos Avenue has flooded, and traffic on Parnitha Avenue has been halted due to snowfall.
The Pakistani government has requested information from the Republic of Cyprus regarding the death of a 24-year-old Pakistani in the Potamia area. Nicosia intends to inform Islamabad with accurate details to avoid any misunderstandings about the incident. It is also emphasized that more information will be available after the investigations are completed. Pakistan is currently a member of the United Nations Security Council.
A legislative initiative has been presented in Congress for the permanent lifting of the arms embargo on Cyprus. The aim is to eliminate restrictions on military aid and the sale of defense equipment. Permanent lifting of the embargo would facilitate Cyprus's acquisition of American weapon systems. This will further strengthen the defense ties between the U.S. and Cyprus.
Rosemary DiCarlo is planning a trip to Cyprus to prepare for the informal five-party summit in Switzerland, expected to take place between March 17 and 19. This summit will occur before the European Council meeting scheduled for March 20-21. Contrary to initial reports, the visit is not directly linked to meetings with other leaders. Internal reactions continue regarding the UN Secretary-General's reports on the Cyprus issue.
The international scientific community is reporting the emergence of 'tetra-demia' with the addition of the human metapneumovirus (HMPV) to the known viruses like flu, RSV, and Covid-19. HMPV has shown increased activity, primarily in China and in other countries like the UK. The ECDC recommends that member states prepare for increased respiratory virus cases in the coming months. Despite the presence of HMPV, the ECDC emphasizes that there is no significant mortality risk for the general public.
Authorities are working to locate the rental vehicle that a 24-year-old Pakistani national was traveling in when he was shot by a police officer and found dead at the Acropolis. There are suspicions that the victim was involved in illegal human trafficking and had been illegally residing in Cyprus. Investigators have identified closed-circuit surveillance recordings showing a suspicious vehicle, and arrests of individuals possibly linked to the case are anticipated. The vehicle's discovery could shed light on the circumstances surrounding his death.
DISY is demanding a thorough investigation into the case of the 24-year-old foreigner who was shot dead by a police officer. AKEL is pointing fingers at the Minister of Justice, calling for his resignation. The political disputes between the government and the opposition are intensifying, with DISY emphasizing the need for clarification of the facts. The situation creates insecurity among citizens and raises serious questions about the police.
At Pallouriotissa High School, students participate in various activities such as yoga and chess during breaks. The principal, Elena Hadjigerou, explained that the aim is to utilize the talents of students, teachers, and parents. Activities also include competitions and public consultations for improving the school environment. There is a strong emphasis on everyone’s participation and the development of an active school community.
Around 5,000 citizens are paying their penalties daily after the police announced that cases would be registered in courts starting March 2025. This number has quintupled, as many drivers were aware of their outstanding penalties but avoided payment. The police have allowed citizens to check their obligations through their website. Meanwhile, there is ongoing discussion about whether penalties can expire after 12 months, and a list of those who have not received their penalties is being prepared.
Several football clubs are attempting to raise funds to repay their debts to the Tax Department and Social Insurance. The Tax Department will not revise the repayment terms and is preparing charges against four major clubs that owe significant amounts. These clubs, particularly APOEL, face severe legal consequences if they do not pay promptly. The outstanding debts are significant and compliance with UEFA regulations is urgently needed.