The Legal Service has instructed the Police to pursue criminal charges against Metropolitan Isaiah of Tamasos for two cases. One case involves allegations of theft and money laundering, while the other concerns the operation of a surveillance system at the Abakum Monastery. The amount involved in the theft is approximately €32,000, and the indictment is expected to be filed soon at the Nicosia District Court. In the other case, recommendations for prosecution have been made against three individuals, including the Metropolitan.
Nektaria Tilemachou dedicated a song to Annita Demetriou, praising her strength and wisdom. The song portrays Annita as a flame that warms hearts and guides towards the light. It also highlights her as a role model for every generation and embodies change itself. This tribute emphasizes Annita's significance in society.
The Commissioner for Personal Data Protection addressed the posting of a video involving two police officers, emphasizing the importance of protecting their families' privacy. She noted that although the public cannot recognize the individuals in the video, any information that may stigmatize them should not be published. She stressed that society needs to understand when information is beneficial and when it harms others. Protecting minors is a key priority.
Tonight, an impressive charity fashion show will take place at the residence of Nikos and Myrna Pattihis in Pyrga. The event is organized by the Cyprus Red Cross – Limassol Branch. It will showcase the new haute couture collection by Marias Neoptolemou, titled 'AN ARMY OF WOMEN'. This fashion show is expected to be the most remarkable of the year.
Israel's Foreign Minister, Gideon Sa'ar, criticized Turkish President Erdogan for the illegal occupation of northern Cyprus and his inflammatory remarks against Israel. Sa'ar called Erdogan's speech incendiary and ironic, given that Erdogan suppresses freedoms in Turkey and has imperialistic ambitions. He responded to Erdogan's accusations regarding Israel's policies, stating that Turkey should respect international law. This dialogue highlights the ongoing diplomatic tensions between the two countries.
Nikolas Loizidis, the head of the Equality Police Corps, voiced his opposition to the climate of degradation and cannibalism following the leak of a video featuring police officers. He emphasized that the video does not reflect the majority of police officers and that sharing its content is prohibited. He also mentioned ongoing procedures and swift actions taken by the police. Loizidis believes that the humiliating attacks on security forces are condemnable.
The Chief of Police has sent letters to the Minister of Defense and the Auditor General regarding the criminal investigation involving Anna Aristotelous and Athena Dimitriou. Both women are being investigated for a case related to state documents found in the home of a chief prison officer. The Minister of Defense is awaiting guidance from the Attorney General on the next steps. The Government Spokesman stated that all legal procedures would be followed.
Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan accused Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu of genocide, comparing him to Hitler. He stated that Iran's response to Israeli attacks is 'legitimate self-defense' and warned of the possibility of an international tribunal against Netanyahu. Erdoğan emphasized the need for Turkey to strengthen its diplomatic and defense strategies. Additionally, he remarked that Turkey has no territorial ambitions and is striving for peace.
The Cabinet approved amendments to the bill on multiple pensions, aiming to regulate retirement benefits for government officials. The Government Spokesman mentioned that the formula for calculating the gratuity for MPs has been changed, and a tax provision has been removed. The legislation is expected to be forwarded to the Parliament for a vote. There is hope that a matter discussed in the country since the 1980s will finally be resolved.
Two police officers are accused of violating their professional duties after being filmed in an intimate embrace outside a patrol car. The video has sparked significant online bullying and mockery, with thousands of inappropriate comments. The police are searching for the person who recorded the video, while the officers face criminal and disciplinary charges. The police spokesperson noted that the individuals involved have families and children who are affected by this situation.
Vassos Argyritis, the former director of the Pattihio Municipal Theatre, was found guilty of embezzlement and money laundering concerning €234,550. The case covered the period from 2017 to 2020. The court ordered his temporary detention and set a new date for sentencing mitigation. His testimony was deemed contrived and rejected by the court.
The Holy Synod is preparing to depose priest Dimos Serkelidis due to serious accusations, such as schism and public insults against the Archbishop of Cyprus. Serkelidis, who has been suspended for six months, vowed to attend his trial, hoping his voice will be heard. The charges against him appear to stem from his public posts. Similar past cases have resulted in immediate deposition decisions.
The Education Committee of the Parliament requested educational organizations to submit their disagreements with the Ministry of Education's proposal. The committee's president emphasizes the importance of dialogue for achieving positive outcomes. All educational organizations and the Ministry agreed to this proposal, which promotes continued discussions in a short timeframe.
Cyprus Airways has informed its customers about a potential leak of personal data due to unauthorized access by a third party. While there was no breach of their server, customer contact information such as names, phone numbers, and ID numbers may have been compromised. The company warns passengers to be cautious of malicious messages that may appear to come from third parties. They are currently investigating the incident and strengthening security measures.
A person who was held captive by the Turks for one day claimed to be a prisoner of war to avoid being drafted as a reservist. He receives benefits given to actual war prisoners, which has sparked controversy. The president of the Prisoners' Association mentioned that there are 80-100 individuals receiving unjustified benefits. He called for the Audit Office to investigate these cases.
A total of 105 Greek citizens and their families, along with Cypriots and citizens of other nationalities, have been repatriated from Israel. The operation was conducted in cooperation with the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and was completed safely. The repatriated individuals were transported from Egypt using military aircraft. The Ministry of Foreign Affairs assured ongoing support for those in need.
Israeli airlines are set to start special repatriation flights from Larnaca, Athens, and European cities for citizens stranded abroad due to the ongoing hostilities. The Israeli government has approved these flights, as there are an estimated 150,000 Israelis currently outside the country. Delays are anticipated, with El Al already receiving over 60,000 requests. The repatriation efforts will be coordinated to ensure passenger safety.
The discussion regarding multiple pensions for state officials is expected to be postponed until September. The DIKO party is considering this delay to propose an alternative legislation that would abolish multiple pensions and prevent the simultaneous payment of salary and pension. DISY believes the discussion has been completed and wants to finalize the matter before the summer break. Significant changes are anticipated from the Cabinet regarding the bills related to pensions.
The possibility of an electoral partnership among EDEK, DIPA, and DIKO seems very limited. EDEK and DIPA have rejected such a collaboration, while DIKO is looking for common issues to work on. Based on the electoral percentages of the three parties, a joint candidacy does not appear viable. Under the current circumstances, they will need to find a way to either join as a coalition or operate under the leadership of one party.
The Federation of Animal Welfare Organizations in Cyprus has reported an 'indirect coercion' from authorities, demanding shelters sign a declaration to host seized animals as a condition for state funding. They argue that private shelters cannot be held responsible for seized animals. The situation at Cypriot shelters is critical, with many on the brink of closure due to overcrowding. Additionally, adoptions abroad have drastically decreased in recent years.
Cyprus emphasizes that the European Union must take an active role in the Middle East region. Foreign Minister Konstantinos Kumbos is planning cooperation and dialogue with all relevant parties to de-escalate tensions. He calls for immediate EU involvement in humanitarian aid and the protection of EU citizens. The situation is critical and requires organized planning and a strategic approach.
The government plans to make changes to tax legislation to combat tax evasion. Strategies include the potential closure of businesses that do not issue legal receipts. Additionally, penalties for non-payment of taxes and increased fines are being proposed. These proposals are still under consideration and will require further consultations.
A prisoner in the Central Prisons reported that two prison officers were responsible for the theft of state documents. However, the police found no evidence supporting this claim. Instead, it appears that the complaint may have been made to cover the real perpetrators. Investigations are ongoing, with the prison management under continued scrutiny.
The investigative process regarding the case of Giorgos Koumas began yesterday, focusing on his business activities and the potential conflict of interest related to the management of football broadcasting rights. Two witnesses provided testimonies, while Koumas, who recently resigned from the presidency of the CFA, was not present. The investigation incorporates insights and evidence from previous inquiries and is led by independent criminal investigator Alexandra Likourgou. Completion of the investigation is expected soon.