In Mindanao, Philippines, a chartered aircraft for the U.S. military crashed, resulting in four fatalities. Among the victims is one American soldier and three external contractors. The aircraft was on a reconnaissance mission, and there were no survivors. The cause of the crash is still under investigation.
A 33-year-old man was sentenced to 10 years in prison for trafficking 2 kilograms of cocaine. Despite his confession and clean criminal record, he did not name his accomplices due to fear of reprisals. He claimed his involvement was due to financial difficulties and the pressure from a loan shark. The police had intelligence on the case, and the suspects were monitored during the operation.
The Transmission System Operator of Cyprus responds to consumer questions about electricity production cuts from photovoltaic systems. These cuts are necessary because electricity demand cannot be entirely met by renewable sources. During certain hours, production from renewables exceeds the available needs, necessitating reductions. The largest commercial units are cut first before smaller installations are affected.
The entrance and exit of New Ledra is expected to be completed by October 2026, according to the mayors of the neighboring areas. Currently, the area faces access and safety issues due to inadequate infrastructure. A project of 1.4 kilometers has been scheduled to improve the situation. Local officials are calling for immediate government intervention to resolve the issue.
Beer deliveries from Cypriot factories increased by 6.3% in January 2025. This growth was solely due to the domestic market, which saw a 13.6% rise in deliveries. However, exports fell to zero, marking a 100% decline. This is a significant change compared to December 2024 when exports had surged by 82%.
The community of Pissouri has been recognized as one of the best tourist villages in the world by the World Tourism Organization. This award acknowledges the community's commitment to sustainable tourism development and the promotion of local products. The village will now join an international network of destinations and have the opportunity to share expertise with others. The awarding ceremony will be celebrated with festive events on February 15th.
The electricity authority clarified the process for reconnecting small photovoltaic systems after disconnection. They emphasized the importance of regular checks by owners to ensure proper functioning. Checks can be conducted through an app or via visual inspection of the inverter. The authority encourages users to be cautious to avoid issues.
This morning, a serious traffic accident occurred in the Troodos area. A vehicle without anti-slip chains struck a woman who was taking photos with her mobile phone. The woman hit the windshield of the vehicle and was violently thrown into a tree, while the vehicle collided with a mini bus. Rescuers and journalists provided immediate assistance, and the injured woman was taken to the hospital with serious injuries.
Authorities have identified the person behind the threats made against the President of the Republic through digital footprints. The threatening message referred to specific actions that needed to be taken. The sender of the message is now wanted, and several offenses are being investigated against them. Increased security measures remain in place due to the threats.
Transplanted patients and cancer sufferers are facing serious delays in accessing medications due to processes from the Ministry of Health and the OAY. The OAY's understaffing worsens the situation, with the Cyprus Patients' Federation calling for immediate solutions. Patients risk being without their necessary treatment, urging the responsible authorities to take responsibility. This situation requires urgent actions to ensure the health and lives of the patients.
The Cypriot government plans to start disbursing compensation for 'haircut' depositors and bondholders by the end of the first half of 2025. The Minister of Finance announced that about 13,000 applications have been submitted, with the assessment process expected to be completed soon. Compensation will be phased due to limited resources. These developments provide hope for the restoration of injustices from 2013.
The Parliamentary Audit Committee is holding a closed-door session regarding the contract for the Paphos–Polis Chrysochous road. The Legal Service withdrew contentious paragraphs that could restrict discussions about public projects. MP Chryssis Pantelidis denounced attempts to silence the Parliament, emphasizing the need for transparency in public works. The committee is examining processes and potential causes for the failures of these projects, which are causing economic repercussions.
The Cyprus Meteorological Department issued a warning for very strong winds, reaching up to 6 beaufort, affecting the area from noon until midnight. These winds will primarily impact the eastern and, locally, the southern and northern coasts. Light isolated rain and light snowfall in the mountains are expected. Temperatures are forecasted to range between 2 and 13 degrees Celsius, depending on the areas.
Today, schools in mountainous areas remained closed due to snowfall and frost. The Ministry of Education announced which schools in Secondary and Primary Education were not operational. The condition of the road network in the Troodos areas is hazardous, and the Police warn drivers to exercise caution. Open roads are only available for four-wheel-drive vehicles or those equipped with snow chains.
Giannos Oxyinos informed the Minister of Transport about the dangers of faulty Takata airbags following the death of his son, Kyriakos. He stated that the ministry's response was slow and that not enough measures were taken to prevent further deaths. Minister Alexis Vafeadis countered that recall processes began in 2023 and that the responsible authority is making continuous efforts. He claimed that the relevant authority for recalls is actively working on the issue.
Greece is waiting for improved weather conditions to begin research related to the electrical interconnection cable east of Crete. Despite Turkish interventions, navtex is expected to be issued for research in international waters. Delays have caused additional costs of around 14 million euros, with no official statement from the Greek government. A meeting of the energy ministers of Greece and Cyprus will take place in Athens today.
Greece and Cyprus are collaborating in the defense industry to enhance their military capabilities. The Defense Ministers discussed cooperation in military systems production and upgrades of military bases. There is significant interest in both the air and naval bases in Cyprus. Their strategy focuses on strengthening the domestic defense industry and developing new partnerships.
Anita Dimitriou stated that the issue of Onoufrios Koullas's resignation as the party spokesperson has been resolved. She pointed out that there was a temporary tension and that everyone in the party is like a family. Dimitriou describes Koullas as 'dear' and emphasizes the importance of their collaboration. She acknowledges disagreements but asserts that the party will move forward united.
In recent years, online betting has seen significant growth in Cyprus, driven by technological advancements. In contrast, the number of land-based betting shops is decreasing, with 475 currently registered. Larnaca is the only city to see an increase in the number of betting shops. Overall, betting revenues have increased by 13% compared to 2023.
Investigations are underway to determine the responsibilities surrounding the death of Kyriakos Oxyon, who was a victim of a traffic accident involving a defective airbag. The Legal Service has requested additional information from the police, and the responsibility of the company that imported the vehicle will be examined. Clear criminal liabilities have been identified, and developments regarding the case are expected soon. Additionally, investigations are ongoing into the death of another young girl related to a defective airbag.
The Cyprus Theatre Organization (ΘΟΚ) is planning to establish a Drama School in Larnaca, specifically at the Scala Theatre, which is undergoing renovations. The initial offerings will include master's programs in acting, directing, and playwriting for graduates of drama schools. Collaboration with a university is crucial for ensuring academic supervision and degree recognition. The organization aims to complete the necessary procedures within one or two years.
A warning has been issued regarding carbapenem-resistant bacteria in Cyprus, with cases rising by 275.7% since 2019. These bacteria are hard to treat and often lead to serious infections. There is an urgent need to enhance precautionary measures in hospitals. This situation aligns with the overall increase of infections in hospitals across the EU.
The Holy Metropolis of Limassol has submitted an environmental study for a large development in the Sfalaggiotissa area, costing €379.5 million. The development includes educational institutions, sports centers, and cultural spaces. There are concerns regarding the area's road network, as governmental projects are needed to support it. The aim is to create a sustainable community focused on education, research, and innovation.
The government plans to establish an Investigative Committee to examine the process of recalls for used vehicles from 2010 to the present, due to faulty airbags. Transport Minister Alexis Vafeadis expects the responsibilities of the Department of Road Transport to be clarified. He states that the inquiry will look into any disciplinary or criminal liabilities. A proposal for further investigation is expected next week.