A member of parliament has requested the Minister of Finance to clarify whether a third gender exists beyond male and female. This question relates to the option to declare 'undefined' gender when creating a tax identity. The MP claims that only two genders exist based on biological reality. The Minister's response is awaited with interest.
New searches at the Central Prisons uncovered a total of seven mobile phones hidden in prison cells. Six of the phones were found in a life-sentenced inmate's cell and one in a serious criminal's cell. Authorities had to break part of a wall to locate them as they were hidden. The searches started in the morning and lasted until the afternoon.
The procedures for gun licenses are changing, as the Chief of Police will now have the final say instead of the Cabinet. Applications will be reviewed by a Security Committee before reaching the Chief. Licenses will be issued for only one year and mandatory training for holders will be required. There is a trend of decreasing gun licenses in the country.
A 33-year-old woman and an unknown accomplice entered a store in a shopping center in Limassol and stole 22 clothing items. The woman was arrested and identified by a store employee. Authorities are also investigating her involvement in a second theft case. Investigations to locate her accomplice are ongoing.
A 26-year-old woman was arrested in Cyprus with over 16 kilograms of cannabis in her luggage. The police and Customs Authorities conducted the inspection after receiving information from the Anti-Drug Service. The woman is now in custody and is expected to appear in court. This incident highlights ongoing efforts against drug trafficking on the island.
Officer Evagoras Evagorou testified in court about the murder scene of Thanasis Kalogeropoulos. A total of 21 cartridges and a bullet were found in a sofa across from the crime scene, according to the witness. The condition of the weapons indicates they had been exposed to high temperatures. Ballistics tests were unable to identify 18 of the cartridges due to their damage.
Members of the parliamentary Committee on Economics met with IMF technocrats to discuss the state of the Cypriot economy. The technocrats expressed satisfaction with the improvement of economic indicators and successful stabilization of the legal framework. However, the AKEL MP emphasized the need for economic improvements to alleviate societal pressure. He also proposed support measures for the most vulnerable groups of the population.
The Cabinet approved an emergency state funding of €8 million for water supply projects and network repairs. This aims to reduce water losses, which reach 35-40%. Additionally, a grant of €3 million was approved for small desalination units in hotels and a simplified licensing process for such units. These decisions align with the national strategy for sustainable water management.
The Police alert the public about a scam involving fake company offers on Social Media. These offers claim to provide products at very low prices, but they are deceptive and aim to extract personal data. The Police advise citizens to be cautious and confirm the legitimacy of offers before making any transactions. They also recommend reporting any suspicious incidents to the Police.
A nationwide survey reveals that 64% of households are struggling financially due to rising prices while their incomes remain stagnant. Many consumers have adjusted their spending habits, cutting expenses and seeking more affordable options. Approximately 90% of respondents believe that prices have increased, with only 34% stating that they are living comfortably on their income. The survey highlights citizens' concerns about their financial well-being and the impacts of inflation.
The Education Committee of the Parliament discussed serious concerns regarding student delinquency, including the potential for human trafficking. An increase in drug use and other substances in schools has been noted among students. It was reported that 70 minors have been referred to treatment centers for drug-related issues in the past three years. Experts highlight the need for enhanced professional presence in schools to address these issues.
The commencement of road works at the Liopetri River was hindered due to protests from the former contractor, Lois Builders. The company reported the Department of Town Planning to the Police for damages at the site. Both allegations have prompted separate police investigations, and it remains unclear when the works will actually begin. The Ministry of Interior reaffirms its commitment to carry out the project despite the delays.
Cyprus is facing a severe risk of wildfires due to prolonged drought and high temperatures. The Regulatory Authority for Tenders decided to sign a contract for the rental of two firefighting helicopters, despite pending appeals from two disqualified companies. The Forest Department warns that the current firefighting capabilities are insufficient and need to be addressed urgently. Extreme weather conditions are increasing the risk of catastrophic wildfires.
Andriana Nikolaou is seeking the return of her son Thanasis's remains from the Police, where they have been since 2020. Forensic expert Panikos Stavrianos plans to file an objection against this return. The mother accuses Stavrianos of desecrating her child's memory and insists on her right to the sacred remains. The court session regarding this request is scheduled for tomorrow.
A third case of meningitis has been reported in Cyprus, involving a 17-year-old who is currently in intensive care. This follows two other cases from last week, including a high school student from Limassol and an infant from Paphos. The 17-year-old's condition is serious, while the other two patients are also under intensive care. Authorities are closely monitoring their health status.
The parliamentary discussion regarding the police actions during the hunters' event has been postponed until after Easter. Police Chief Themistocles Arnaoutis did not provide explanations and requested the discussion to be halted, announcing a dual investigation. Lawmakers reacted strongly to his refusal to answer, while he emphasized that the police must avoid conflicts. The situation will be re-evaluated after the holidays to gain a clearer understanding of the events.
The police are asking for 43,000 euros from the Municipality of Limassol for overtime related to the carnival. After the mayor refused to pay, the Chief of Police sent a request to the Attorney General. The police categorize events into charitable, festive, and protest events, seeking payment for overtime in profitable events. The outcome of the case depends on the Attorney General's decision.
Taxi drivers in Limassol are staging a four-hour work stoppage to protest against piracy that affects their profession. They are closing roundabouts and warning that, if no action is taken, they will close the airports as well. The Federation demands policing and monitoring of undeclared work. The Ministry of Transport points out that the drivers themselves are part of the problem.
Former Commissioner for Volunteerism, Giannakis Giannakis, appeared in court after failing to attend the scheduled hearing due to health reasons. The judge ordered the examination of his doctor, finding the evidence insufficient to justify his absence. Giannakis explained he suffered from gastritis and vomiting, making it impossible for him to drive. He was ultimately released on bail, with the trial scheduled to continue in April 2025.
Following the disturbances caused by a protest that disrupted traffic on the Nicosia-Limassol highway, the issue is being addressed in Parliament. The Legal Committee will examine protests that hinder traffic flow. Hunters are requesting training opportunities for their hunting dogs, raising environmental concerns. The discussion focuses on balancing the right to protest with the need for public order and free movement.
Russia and Ukraine have agreed to a ceasefire in the Black Sea, with the support of the US. The agreement includes ensuring safe navigation and halting military attacks. However, Russia makes it clear that the agreement depends on the lifting of sanctions. Ukrainian President Zelensky emphasizes that he remains cautious about Moscow's intentions.
Former Commissioner of Volunteerism, Yiannis Giannaki, is expected to appear today at the District Court of Nicosia. He was arrested because the medical certificate he submitted to avoid attending court was deemed insufficient. He faces charges of forgery and will explain his absence from the trial. The case is scheduled for a hearing on April 2.
The area is influenced by weak high pressure and there will be light dust in the atmosphere. Today's weather will be mostly clear with high clouds and mild winds. The temperature will reach 28 degrees Celsius, while in the evening it will be mostly cloudy and drop to 12 degrees. The forecast for the next few days includes a slight rise in temperature and potential local rain on Saturday.
On Tuesday night, two hooded individuals entered a kiosk in Larnaca and stole money from the cash register. After the robbery, the perpetrators fled. Authorities have been mobilized and are conducting investigations to locate them.
During the coup on July 15, 1974, the statue of Freedom in Nicosia was hit by bullets, symbolizing the violence of that period. Although its inauguration was planned, it was postponed due to the events. This year, 51 years later, the statue will finally be inaugurated alongside events commemorating the history of Cyprus. The bullet hole represents the open wound of Hellenism and the island's history.
The Paphos region is reviving forgotten chapels, attracting both pilgrims and tourists. Many of these chapels were left in neglect, but in recent years, efforts from government and private initiatives have led to their restoration. Notable restorations include the church of Saint Sozon in Asprogia and the Monastery of Panagia Chrysolakournas, the oldest monastery in the area. These restorations are bringing life back to important religious sites.
Between 2020 and 2024, there has been a decrease in deaths and injuries from traffic accidents, which is seen as a positive development. This reduction is attributed to increased safety measures and growing road awareness. In 2023, the lowest number of fatalities was recorded, with 32 fatal accidents. While the results are encouraging, the Traffic Department plans targeted campaigns to address dangerous driving behaviors.