5 Minute News

The Social Services Workers Sector of the 'EQUALITY' Union has reported that cameras at the Ministry of Social Welfare recorded both audio and video, violating the personal data rights of employees. The ministry responded that audio recording was only happening at the main entrance. The union is requesting greater transparency about the situation and is questioning the security of access to the recordings. Accountability is needed for the violation of these rights.

In the Potamia case, authorities arrested a 37-year-old Iranian on serious charges, including attempted murder, following an incident that resulted in the death of a 24-year-old Pakistani. Alongside him, a 39-year-old from Cameroon is in custody, while another individual from Pakistan is being sought. All three are believed to be members of a migrant smuggling ring. The police are expected to release an official statement regarding the identity of the wanted person.

Investigations are ongoing regarding the attempted murder that occurred in Limassol. A 16-year-old Syrian has been arrested and denies involvement in the stabbings that injured three people. The condition of an 18-year-old victim is severe as he remains hospitalized in critical condition. The police are seeking another suspect believed to be the actual perpetrator.

A 37-year-old man has been arrested in connection with a shooting incident in Potamia. Police are also searching for a second individual involved in the case. An associated vehicle has been identified as well. The man is charged with attempted murder and conspiracy.

Donald Trump is nearing his inauguration for a second term in the White House. Many around the world welcome him, although Europeans and South Koreans express concerns about the 'Trump 2.0' era. The developments surrounding his return are critical and closely monitored by international media.

The recent agreement between Israel and Hamas is uncertain in its potential outcomes, as citizens on both sides believe the final phase is distant and unlikely. The Palestinians accepted the deal under pressure and the need to end the war, while Israelis are focused on the release of hostages. However, significant political challenges in both Jerusalem and Gaza may affect the success of the agreement. Hamas appears to be a key factor that could undermine the process due to a lack of trust from all parties.

The issue of juvenile detention has resurfaced following the arrest of three minors for robbery. Lawyer Alexandros Kliridis criticizes the existing detention facilities as unsuitable and emphasizes the need for specific juvenile detention centers that respect the rights of minors. He mentions the concerning conditions in Limassol's holding cells and calls for immediate changes. Additionally, an increase in juvenile involvement in serious crimes has been noted.

The Electricity Authority of Cyprus (EAC) is starting the installation of smart meters in various areas to test and upgrade the electrical network. The first 50,000 meters will soon be installed, with a total of 500,000 projected by 2028. Smart meters offer additional functionalities that inform consumers. No action is required from consumers for their installation.

The police are investigating an assault on an inmate at the Central Prison, but the victim is uncooperative. The foreign inmate was taken to the hospital but does not have serious injuries. The Crime Investigation Department will gather evidence from surveillance cameras. His health condition is good, and he is expected to be discharged soon.

A student in Nicosia reported sexual harassment by her teacher. The complaint was made by her mother, and the student has already given a statement to the police. The Ministry of Education has been informed and has initiated the process for the teacher's suspension. The police are continuing their investigations.

Hate speech on the internet has dangerously increased, with at least 1,000 comments being posted daily, promoting racism and other forms of intolerance. The legislation seems ineffective, and authorities are not initiating investigations. Experts emphasize the need for a monitoring body for hate speech and for criminalizing such behaviors. They also highlight the challenges in legally defining hate speech.

Ankara plans to submit four urgent files to the new US President, Donald Trump. They request the withdrawal of US support for PKK/YPG, the lifting of CAATSA sanctions, and a return to the F-35 program. Turkey is also asking for the delivery of F-16s and the resolution of arms issues in Cyprus. Ankara hopes for a positive response from Trump to improve Turkey-US relations.

A severe assault on a foreign inmate occurred at the Central Prisons. The inmate was reportedly beaten with a padlock by fellow inmates in the recently inaugurated '11' wing. The Police are waiting for an official report about the incident, and initial information suggests the victim suffered serious injuries. The new wing has a high-definition surveillance system that likely recorded the attack.

Logicom Services Limited announced the acquisition of 100% of Demetra Holdings Plc, offering €1.55 per share. After purchasing 8.576% of Demetra's shares, Logicom is required to submit a mandatory public offer to all shareholders. The completion of the offer depends on obtaining the necessary approvals from the Cyprus Securities and Exchange Commission. Logicom is a wholly-owned subsidiary of Logicom Public Limited.

A 57-year-old man is in custody for the attempted murder of his 46-year-old wife in Peyia. The woman is in critical condition at the Nicosia General Hospital after being shot. Police are investigating a dispute between the couple that may have led to the incident. The suspect was arrested at the scene, and the investigation is ongoing.

Today at 10:30 AM, leaders Christodoulides and Tatar will meet under the auspices of the UN Secretary-General in Cyprus to discuss the opening of new crossings. The Greek Cypriot side has proposed the opening of crossings at Pyroi and Kokkina, while the Turkish Cypriot side is advocating for the establishment of a crossing at Mia Milia. President Christodoulides expresses optimism for a positive outcome and is prepared to announce proposals. The results will depend on the response from the Turkish Cypriot side during the meeting.

A 46-year-old woman from Peyia is in critical but stable condition at the General Hospital of Nicosia after being shot by her 57-year-old husband. Police investigations are focusing on family disputes as a possible motive for the attempted murder. The suspect is in custody and is expected to appear in court. Authorities continue their investigations into the incident.

Three lucky players from Cyprus won €100,000 in the latest Joker draw. In the next draw, scheduled for January 21, 2025, at least €14,800,000 will be available for the first category. The winning numbers came from the 2860th draw. Luck was on the side of the players this time.

Brussels is expressing concern over Elon Musk's increasing influence in the EU. MEPs are proposing to invite Musk to the European Parliament to share his views. His actions are being analyzed, and recent statements have provoked reactions from various European politicians. The EU is strengthening its investigation into the platform X and its algorithms.

The Kalavasos bridge is in urgent need of maintenance due to corrosion and wear, with upgrade works having started in October 2024. The duration of the works has been reduced from 10 months to a total of 6 months to expedite completion. Despite delays caused by strikes, the upgrade aims to improve safety and comply with European standards. The project is expected to be completed by July 2025.

The mayor of Limassol, Giannis Armetis, shares his vision for the city and his approach to its everyday challenges. He emphasizes the need for collective action and communication with citizens, pointing out the absence of magical solutions for traffic issues. He plans to enhance cleaning services and develop infrastructure for better quality of life. He acknowledges that improvement requires ongoing processes and adjustments to the needs of the local community.

Cyprus is facing a concerning situation regarding excess mortality, recording high rates in November 2024. According to Eurostat data, the country ranks second in the EU with a rate of 18%. The number of deaths has become a serious issue, with weekly summaries indicating that Cyprus had the highest mortality rates among EU countries in several weeks. This data is compared to figures from years prior to the COVID-19 pandemic, highlighting a troubling trend.

Organized patients, doctors, and healthcare facilities in Cyprus are expressing strong opposition to two amending bills from the Ministry of Health. These amendments could potentially lead to the closure of all private hospitals in 18 months as they propose new criteria that existing hospitals may not meet. Officials are calling for a unified legislation for both public and private hospitals to avoid the current chaos. The response from stakeholders is expected to be strong in the coming days.

The leaders' meeting in Cyprus raises concerns as prospects for a positive outcome appear limited. The Greek Cypriot side desires the opening of new crossings, while the Turkish Cypriot side insists only on the opening of the Mias Miliyas crossing. Government sources express pessimism about the meeting's outcome, stating that no pleasant surprises are expected. The aim is to communicate willingness for dialogue and address potential concerns.

The Department of Road Transport is working to quickly address vehicles with faulty Takata airbags through communication with manufacturers and other countries. Plans are being considered for effectively managing recalls and inspections on vehicles imported from non-European countries. The availability of airbags and the financial capability of distributors will determine the success of this process. It is anticipated that manufacturers' responsibility diminishes when vehicles are exported to countries with different standards.