5 Minute News

The report from the Fire Service highlights the responsibilities of local government in fire prevention, noting that necessary actions for clearing fields and lots were not taken. It suggests operating fire stations 24/7 and hiring additional staff. The report also references specific incidents that occurred during a heatwave, where instructions were given to increase patrols. It emphasizes the need for improved fire prevention and collaboration between services.

The police report regarding the death of the elderly couple Dimitris and Marios Filipidis raises questions as it connects to roadblocks. These roadblocks were implemented due to a wildfire in the area, coupled with poor guidance during the village evacuation. The village chief of Silikou expressed concerns about the situation, as the elderly couple used the wrong road. The case is under investigation by the Limassol Crime Investigation Department.

American experts will investigate the responsibilities for the deadly fire in Limassol and will recommend measures to prevent such incidents in the future. The President of the Republic, Nikos Christodoulides, announced that the team will arrive in Cyprus to conduct their inquiry. The reports gathered will include accounts from various governmental agencies. Their mission is to ensure transparency and accountability.

The Civil Defense report does not mention the couple who perished in the recent wildfire in Silikou. There is also no mention of issues with the early warning system for citizens. While Civil Defense provides evacuation instructions, it appears there is no legal framework for the safe organization of camps. These omissions raise concerns about the effectiveness of public safety measures.

A 37-year-old entrepreneur has been granted permission to challenge a search warrant against her properties after €238,000 was found in her bank vaults. The judge noted that the source of information was not sufficiently credible to justify the warrant. The case involves serious offenses such as corruption and money laundering. Proceedings will continue with a deadline for submitting the application within 15 days.

The reports concerning the fires in the mountainous Limassol indicate that there was a swift and large-scale response from authorities and firefighters. Contrary to claims of insufficient reaction, the information reveals that mobilization was quick. The fire spread within moments, but authorities were properly prepared. The reports will be published in full for transparency and public information.

Two compatriot victims of kidnapping reported being violently attacked by three suspects who demanded the return of an amount of €2,500. The suspects tied them up and assaulted them, threatening them with violence. The custody proceedings at the court were intense, with a decision expected tomorrow. Police investigations are ongoing to clarify the case.

The police will retain the videos from the Monastery of Saint Abbacum following a decision from the Supreme Court. Former archimandrite Nektarios requested the annulment of the retention order, claiming it was issued unlawfully. The videos contain personal and religious data of the monks and mention violence during an invasion of the monastery. Nektarios asserts that the submission of the evidence without the abbot's consent is legally invalid.

A District Court found a 77-year-old woman guilty of animal abuse, ruling her guilty on 10 out of 13 charges. The animals in her care were living in horrific conditions, with three suffering from serious ailments requiring medical attention. The case has caused shock and outrage in the community, with witnesses proving the defendant's guilt. Sentencing mitigation hearings are scheduled for September.

David Luiz, a Brazilian footballer with an impressive career, has chosen Peyia as his base, moving into a luxurious resort. His transfer to Paphos FC is not just a sports move but a social one, promising more attention to the area. Rumors suggest he’s already asking where to find the best halloumi pie. His presence will add excitement to the league and boost Paphos' Instagram activity.

A shocking international network of cat abuse has been revealed, with a presence in the UK. Users trade videos of tortures and killings of animals, mainly cats, through encrypted applications. The investigation uncovered discussions in one group on how to adopt kittens for the purpose of abusing them. There are concerns about the involvement of children in these activities.

Today, a protest is scheduled regarding the recent fire in the mountainous area of Limassol, with citizens gathering outside the Presidential Palace. The event has not been officially organized by any group. The Police will be present to ensure the peaceful conduct of the event and smooth traffic flow. Participants are urged to cooperate with law enforcement.

The Cyprus Consumers' Association released a price evaluation for 267 common products across five supermarkets. The findings indicate that Sklavenitis is the cheapest, followed by Athienitis and others. Notably, Alpha Mega had numerous promotions, but most were higher than the standard prices of the other supermarkets. The Association plans to continue sharing its findings to keep consumers informed.

The case of Giannis Giannakis has been postponed again, now scheduled for August 6. Judge Nicole Grigoriou issued a stern warning for adequate witnesses to be present. Giannakis has admitted to three of the charges against him, with five others still pending. The case revolves around charges of forgery and the circulation of false documents.

Andros Theodorou, the Mayor of Polemidia, criticized the police after recent arson incidents at Polemidia Park. He claimed that the M.M.A.D. has insufficient presence outside Nicosia despite warnings about rising delinquency. He emphasized that the local authorities can no longer be held responsible as the situation has become alarming and requires state intervention. Residents are terrified and seeking solutions for their safety.

A man was recovered dead from the sea at Phinikoudes in Larnaca. Lifeguards attempted to resuscitate him, but their efforts were unsuccessful. Earlier that morning, the Rescue Coordination Center activated a plan to search for a missing person in the area. The man was taken to the hospital, where his death was confirmed.

The Presidential Palace confirmed that there will be no changes to the government, as the President has not announced anything regarding this. The government commits to full transparency regarding the wildfires that affected the Limassol district, with reports to be published. It was clarified that there are no differences between the Ministers of Finance and Energy. The government will collectively decide on matters concerning the interests of the Cypriot people.

The Civil Defense Agency denies rumors that its Director was at a beach during the fires in Limassol. In fact, Maria Papa was abroad for her child's graduation. However, all necessary measures were taken to ensure the smooth operation of the Agency during her absence. Additionally, the Civil Defense condemns the spreading of false information that confuses the public.

A 23-year-old was arrested in Limassol for his involvement in a drug trafficking ring based in Greece. The suspect admitted to receiving €500 for each package of drugs he collected. The Narcotics Control Service is conducting investigations, and a total of 12 kilograms of drugs have been seized. The young man appears to have been recruited by a member of the network and has been brought before the court with an order for eight days of detention.

The director of the Department of Forests requested the hiring of fire-fighters as early as January, but the Ministry of Finance significantly delayed this action. This delay contributed to an ineffective response to the recent devastating fires in Limassol. MP Christos Christofides revealed the situation, highlighting the inadequacy in central planning for fire prevention and response. The documents he presented confirm serious deficiencies in the firefighting service.

The Eurostat study analyzes the age and composition of cars operating in Cyprus and the rest of Europe. In Cyprus, 42.57% of cars are aged between 10-20 years, while only 4.63% are under 2 years old. The majority of EU countries prefer gasoline cars, with Luxembourg and Germany having the highest rates of newer vehicles. Renewal programs for car fleets assist in reducing emissions.

A 35-year-old driver in Ayia Napa was arrested after attempting to bribe police officers to avoid a breathalyzer test. The man, who was heavily under the influence of alcohol, assaulted the officers and tried to escape. After being apprehended, he underwent an alcohol test that registered above the legal limit. He was charged and later released.

The traffic team 'Z' of Limassol conducted an operation in the Municipality of Polemidia, seizing four motorcycles and one car. A 19-year-old driver was found positive in a drug test and lacked a driving license and insurance. Additionally, a 16-year-old was caught riding a stolen motorcycle, while a 21-year-old violated two red traffic lights without a license or insurance. The Limassol Traffic Police continue their investigations.

In the next Joker draw on August 5, 2025, at least €20,400,000 will be distributed among the winners of the first category. Last night, during the 2944th draw, a jackpot was recorded, while six lucky tickets from the second category won €100,000 each. Details about where these lucky tickets were purchased are also available.

Artificial intelligence has entered children's lives and influences them without parents' awareness. Children trust it for significant issues, but its responses lack human empathy. This new reality shapes children's thinking before parents or teachers can intervene. There is a need for education and dialogue around artificial intelligence sooner, before children form misguided beliefs.

Traffic in Ayios Athanasios has seen a notable increase in recent years, reaching 91,000 vehicles daily. This represents a 34% increase compared to previous years. Similar trends are observed at the entrance of Nicosia and on other major roads. Rush hour has extended, making daily driving more challenging.

During an anti-occupation event for Famagusta, presenter Andreas Kazamias made critical remarks about the government and previous administrations, sparking strong reactions. The Municipality of Famagusta plans to distance itself from Kazamias's comments, with Mayor Simos Ioannou stating that the official position is expressed differently. Political groups also reacted, labeling Kazamias's speech as extreme and divisive. The Municipality emphasizes the importance of unity regarding the issue of Famagusta.

Green Points are places where citizens can dispose of various household items for free to help protect the environment. However, some people still choose to throw away their waste carelessly, ignoring the purpose of these points. In Nicosia district, there are currently eight Green Points, with plans for five more. The aim is for these points to become areas for material reuse and recycling.

The Republic of Cyprus is making diplomatic efforts towards the EU and the UN for the release of five Greek Cypriots held in the occupied territories. Brussels has promised to intervene with Turkey and the occupying authorities. Meanwhile, the Greek Cypriots are preparing to appeal the detention order against them. The Cypriot government warns of the implications of the situation and emphasizes the need for caution among citizens wishing to visit the occupied areas.

Children in need of occupational therapy and their parents are facing serious challenges due to the lack of agreement between the Health Insurance Organization and private therapists. Many families have to pay out of pocket, leading to social inequalities and financial exclusion. Parents are worried about the consequences of the lack of therapy on their children's development and integration into school. The inclusion of private occupational therapists in the GHS is considered crucial for ensuring quality care for children.

The wildfires on July 23 in the Limassol region caused significant damage and fatalities, prompting parliamentary committees to meet and investigate the causes and consequences of the tragedy. Citizens expressed their anger towards the political system, which appeared inactive and ineffective. There is a pressing need for immediate answers and actions before crises occur. This situation highlights the lack of strategic and long-term planning in crisis management.