Since the beginning of 2025, wildfires in the European Union have burned over 10 million acres, setting a new record. Four countries, including Cyprus, have already surpassed their previous annual records. Spain is the hardest-hit country with 4 million acres destroyed, followed by Portugal and Romania. The wildfires have also released significant amounts of CO2 into the atmosphere. The situation is worsening, with serious consequences anticipated.
A 24-year-old was arrested by the police in Lakatamia for ten offenses after hitting a police officer with a stolen motorcycle. The incident occurred when the young man resisted a check and drove the motorcycle towards the officer. After the collision, he crashed into a police vehicle and had to be taken to the hospital for examination. However, he did not require hospitalization and did not receive first aid due to his residency status. He is currently in custody and is expected to be charged with the offenses attributed to him.
The Greek National Intelligence Service has been monitoring the activities of the criminal group Gun Maslum, which is involved in drug trafficking. Six Turks have been arrested, including the alleged leader known as 'Reiz.' Reiz is wanted in Turkey and was living a luxurious life in Greece. The group used a courier company to import supercars. Despite the arrests, authorities are concerned about potential new criminal activities by other Turks in Greece.
The trial of the five Greek Cypriots remains pending, with the hearing postponed to August 27. The defendants deny the charges of illegal entry into the occupied areas. During the process, the defense challenged the validity of the evidence presented. A 'police officer' testified with photographs related to the case. The next court session is scheduled for the morning of August 27.
A 32-year-old Greek Cypriot was arrested by the British Bases police in Dhekelia. He claimed he accidentally entered the occupied areas, but there are indications he was trying to return from an uncontrolled point. His arrest is linked to a potential involvement in drug smuggling. The incident took place early in the morning near the Strovolos checkpoint. The young man said he saw headlights and panicked when he realized he was near the checkpoint of the occupying authorities.
On Thursday morning, an 80-year-old Greek Cypriot was found dead on Dasoudi beach in Limassol. The elderly man was discovered unresponsive by other bathers who witnessed the tragic incident. Lifeguards start their duties at 10:00 AM, while many swimmers are already at the beach as early as 6:30 AM. This raises concerns about the need to change the lifeguard schedule. So far this season, five deaths have been reported on Limassol's beaches.
A tragic accident occurred in Kiti, resulting in the death of a 31-year-old man, Antonis Kourras. He was flying a paramotor when, under unknown circumstances, he lost control and crashed into a rock near the beach. Police and the air accident investigation committee are looking into the reasons for the crash. Antonis was part of a group camping in the Sofatdes area. The incident has shocked the local community.
Billionaire Tom Greenwood, CEO of Volt, suffered severe injuries from a car accident in Mykonos. After the accident, he experienced a heart attack while being treated at the local health center. His private insurance initially refused to transport him due to the seriousness of his condition. Eventually, he was transported by an EKAV aircraft to a hospital in Athens, where he underwent surgery. His health condition is now stable but remains serious.
A 43-year-old suspect has been detained for seven days in connection with the arson of a factory in Ypsonas. Prior to the arson, he created a disturbance in a café, where he threatened the complainant. The suspect had worked for the complainant before resigning and attempted to return to work but was not accepted. There was a previous report of malicious damage to the complainant's car. Despite a search of the suspect's home and vehicle, no incriminating evidence was found.
A 32-year-old Greek Cypriot accidentally entered the occupied territories while driving and stopped on a dirt road. Upon seeing approaching lights, he realized he was near a Turkish military checkpoint. He ran back to the free areas, leaving his vehicle behind. The British Bases police are investigating the incident, and the Republic's authorities have been notified to assist in returning the vehicle. The young man from Nicosia was fortunate to escape.
Investigators are looking into the serious injury of a 19-year-old national guard member in Larnaca, who is in critical condition. The incident occurred when the young man allegedly lay on the hood of a friend’s car and fell, hitting his head. The investigation revealed that it was not an accident but involved other circumstances that are being examined. The driver of the car has been arrested and is being held for two days. Witness statements and evidence are being assessed to clarify the exact circumstances of the incident.
President Nikos Christodoulides signed laws to abolish multiple pensions for future state officials starting in 2026. The new legislation states that officials will receive their pension at 65 years of age, rather than 60 as is currently the case. Additionally, pension payments will be suspended if an official takes on a new role. The law includes provisions regarding pensions for multiple terms while upholding established rights. Certain officials are exempt from this legal framework.
Next week, the progress of the dialogue between the Ministry of Education and educational organizations on teacher evaluation will be examined. Minister of Education, Athina Michaeledou, will meet with organizations POED, OELMEK, and OLTEK to present the modified proposal. There is an emphasis on formative evaluation and clarification of the responsibilities of the proposed committees. Michaeledou underscores the importance of changes in the educational system, highlighting substantive issues that affect society as a whole. The Education Committee has requested a dialogue to bridge differences.
The 36-year-old Israeli suspect Daniel Yehonatan Zarug has been handed over to the Cypriot authorities, facing charges related to a death trap. He is currently held under a temporary arrest warrant and is expected to be extradited to Israel. Zarug intends to legally challenge his extradition, with his lawyers already taking on his defense. The case also has political implications, as it involved other countries. The next court hearing is scheduled for August 29.
A 54-year-old man was found dead in a field in Nicosia with severe burns. Police investigations found no evidence suggesting criminal activity. His death was attributed to extensive severe burns covering more than 25% of his body. His relatives had requested a medical evaluation months prior, but the court denied the request. The case remains under investigation, focusing on the circumstances surrounding his death.
Insurance companies have begun paying compensation to property owners affected by the fire in Limassol. Although only two companies have announced damage assessments, reports indicate that all have already made payments. The total cost for insurers is expected to reach 20 million euros. The companies have the liquidity to cover the claims and continue their operations. The damage assessment process is ongoing for some properties.