5 Minute News

Authorities from seven countries have achieved a significant success in the fight against cybercrime with Operation Endgame. The operation targeted Russian-speaking hacker gangs involved in attacks on governments and businesses worldwide. International arrest warrants were issued for 20 individuals, and the damages from their attacks are estimated in millions of dollars. This operation indicates that international strategies against digital crime are beginning to yield results.

Odysseas Michailidis, the former Auditor General, continues to insist on his allegations against a close associate of the President of the Republic, claiming that he knew about the Supreme Court's decision that removed him from office. Despite reactions from the government and political parties, Michailidis states that he now feels free to speak out. His involvement in political affairs has sparked significant criticism, and he emphasizes the need for clean politicians and serious actions against corruption.

Ersin Tatar attempted to justify his exclusion from the summit of the Turkic Council, admitting he faces continuous exclusions due to the effective diplomacy of Cyprus and Greece. He noted Turkey's support but accused the Greek Cypriot side of systematically excluding Turkish Cypriots from international representation. Additionally, the Turkish Ministry of Defense expressed concerns about Turkey's exclusion from European defense programs. Despite the reactions, the moves by Nicosia are proving effective in gaining recognition for Cypriot diplomacy.

Three new witnesses are set to testify in the ongoing investigation related to the book 'State Mafia' involving former President Nicos Anastasiades. The Independent Authority Against Corruption continues its work, prompted by new developments that require further investigation. Anastasiades has already provided his statements, linking his testimony to his book 'The Slanderer.' The final report of the investigation is expected soon, incorporating these new testimonies.

The residents of Pelendri are frustrated with the delays in the redevelopment of their central square, which is causing serious traffic problems. Despite a budget of €750,000, the work has only progressed to 50% completion after three years. The community has not been consulted on changes to the plans, leading to further discontent. A meeting is scheduled with the Department of Urban Planning in hopes of finding solutions.

The police have made five arrests, mainly involving members of the Central Prisons' staff, who are alleged to be involved in the theft and movement of classified documents. The implicated guard and his associates are being interrogated, and investigations suggest that the documents were moved during a change of prison management. Authorities continue their investigations and await legal proceedings on the matter. The seriousness of the situation arises from the nature of the material found in the possession of the accused.

In a church in Mesana, the birthplace of Metropolitan Tychikos, a fresco and icon of a clergyman were found, who has not been canonized by the Ecumenical Patriarchate. The name of this individual, Nektarios Vitalis, is not included in the Canon and has never been proposed for canonization. The Archbishop of Cyprus is called to address this situation, as it has serious implications for the church and the faithful. The process of canonization is strict and requires time and specific criteria.

Cross-border healthcare in the EU is being integrated into the General Health System, allowing beneficiaries to receive services in other member states and be reimbursed. The Health Insurance Organization is preparing for this process with training and legislative amendments, aiming to be ready by October. The approval of these amendments is crucial and needs to take place before the summer break of Parliament. This process involves close cooperation with the Ministry of Health.

The government is facing increasing debts from football clubs and must decide whether to grant a compliance certificate despite outstanding debts. If it chooses to grant it, the football association will inform UEFA that the clubs meet the criteria. Otherwise, indebted teams will face serious repercussions from the European federation. A decision is needed within the next few days.