5 Minute News

3 months ago

A 38-year-old man from Limassol reported being brutally beaten by 15 police officers during his arrest. He suffered serious injuries, including the removal of his spleen and broken ribs, and required intensive care hospitalization. His lawyer stated that an official complaint would be filed with the Independent Authority for the Investigation of Claims and Complaints against the Police. She emphasized the need for an investigation into the circumstances surrounding the assault.

A seismic disturbance was felt in Cyprus a short while ago, particularly in Limassol. Initial reports indicate that the earthquake has been recognized. Details regarding its magnitude and epicenter have not yet been confirmed. More information is expected soon.

Meat prices are expected to rise for Easter, with high demand for lamb and goat. Cypriot lamb costs about €13 to €15 per kilo, while Greek lamb is priced between €15 and €17 per kilo due to increases. Beef is experiencing shortages and has risen by 7% in price. Pork prices have slightly decreased, while chicken prices remain stable.

This morning at Larnaca Airport, traffic chaos occurred due to the fullness of the temporary parking area. Drivers trying to pick up passengers faced delays as they were directed to alternative parking spaces. The situation has normalized, but issues often arise during peak periods. Changes since October 2023 related to the Gaza conflict are affecting airport traffic.

A new legislation is being proposed by AKEL to regulate the distribution of tips to employees. The law aims to ensure fair distribution of tips and impose severe penalties on employers who violate the provisions. Employers will be required to pay tips within two working days and provide written updates to employees. Additionally, withholding or delaying tip distribution is prohibited.

President Nikos Christodoulides spoke at the Nicosia Economic Congress about the importance of millennials in technology and entrepreneurship, emphasizing the need to support the younger generation. He addressed international developments affecting the economy and the government’s fiscal policy, which has helped the country remain strong. He highlighted the necessity of fiscal responsibility and reforms for development. Christodoulides noted Cyprus's progress with positive economic indicators for the future.

A 35-year-old man who attacked a pharmacist with a knife in Chloraka has been deemed in need of hospitalization. Authorities are reviewing his case, and a court order for his transfer to a psychiatric facility is expected. The pharmacist is in serious condition, while an employee who was also attacked has been discharged. The attack appears to be linked to personal disputes involving the suspect and a relative of the pharmacist.

The bones of Thanasis Nikolaou are now kept in a mausoleum at a monastery in Limassol. His family, after consulting with the Metropolitan, decided to place the remains in a special area. The handover took place last Friday, following a court decision. His mother wishes to be buried alongside her son.

President Christodoulides stated that the Government does not plan to cut the 13th salary, as there are other priorities that must be addressed first. He noted that the International Monetary Fund's recommendations confirm the Government's fiscal policy. Many of these suggestions are already part of the Government's plans to strengthen the Cypriot economy. He emphasized that while the Government recognizes the importance of the recommendations, it is focusing on other initiatives first.

A reception hall started operating without the necessary permits and planning approval. It attracts thousands of visitors, yet authorities express safety concerns. Despite being granted a permit, the required conditions are not met. There is a risk of unfair competition among businesses that comply with regulations.

A 33-year-old pharmacist is hospitalized in serious but stable condition at the Paphos General Hospital after being attacked with a knife by a 35-year-old man. Her 24-year-old employee was treated and discharged following the incident. The suspect was arrested and confessed to the crime, which is reportedly linked to personal disputes. Police investigations into the case are ongoing.

The police announced that approximately 74,000 out of 250,000 unpaid fines have been paid. If citizens do not pay by March 31, criminal cases will begin. There were reactions from politicians, and a one-month extension was granted for payment. It is estimated that by the new deadline, payments will reach 90,000 to 100,000.

The closure of Konstantinos Palaiologos Street for renovation works is causing reactions from shop owners and residents. The Mayor states that there is no other choice due to the progress of the works. Shop owners are asking for improvements in the planning to avoid negative impacts on their businesses. Nonetheless, the goal is to complete the work before Christmas.

The preparation of DISY for the parliamentary elections is underway, with uncertainties surrounding the candidacies of Annita Demetriou and Angelos Votsis. The official entry of Evgenios Hamoulas into ELAM is expected to affect DISY's electoral strategies. Hamoulas has recently re-emerged in the public eye, intensifying speculation about his participation. The finalization of candidates remains crucial as the elections approach.

The company bbf, with Russian interests, is investing €189 million to develop the historic KEAN factory site in Agios Athanasios, Limassol. The project will include residential and commercial buildings and aims to transform the area by providing modern infrastructure. Three phases of construction are planned, with completion expected by 2031. The project is set to include 317 apartments and extensive communal spaces.

The Ministry of Defense announced the permanent positions for 1,100 Contract Soldiers who complete 10 years of service. Interested individuals will be able to take exams for vacant Contract Non-Commissioned Officers positions starting in the fall of 2026. There are also many vacant positions in the armed forces due to limited interest from candidates. The issue of pension benefits remains under review.

The Chinese automotive company BYD is coming to Cyprus, having surpassed Tesla in sales in 2024. Alpan Group will be the official distributor for BYD in Cyprus, with plans to start operations soon. Their goal is to provide advanced and sustainable electric mobility solutions to Cypriot consumers. BYD is evolving into a significant player in the global electric vehicle market, boasting substantial sales and new factories in Europe.

One in three patients with atrial fibrillation is not receiving anticoagulant treatment, increasing their risk of stroke. Additionally, 68% of patients did not undergo necessary laboratory tests in the past year. These findings arise from an evaluation of healthcare services under the GESY system. Officials emphasize the need for better health services to improve patient monitoring.

Bank of Cyprus has confirmed the acquisition of National Insurance (Cyprus) for €29.5 million. With this transaction, the two major banks will control over 60% of the insurance market in the life sector. The banks aim to expand their non-interest income through insurance products. The deal is expected to be completed by the second half of 2025.