5 Minute News

10 days ago

In Limassol, a 51-year-old Greek Cypriot drowned while swimming with his dogs. Despite doctors’ efforts to revive him, the man succumbed later that evening. The police were informed of the incident in the morning when he was found unconscious on the beach. After being revived, he was transported to the hospital where doctors did everything possible. His dogs were later picked up by volunteers from an animal welfare organization.

Kim Ju-e, the daughter of Kim Jong-un, made her appearance at a military parade in Beijing, drawing attention from international leaders. She is considered a potential successor to Kim Jong-un and has started appearing publicly with a style reminiscent of her father. Ju-e is known for her luxury appearance, wearing Gucci sunglasses and Cartier watches. Her public appearances at military and diplomatic events have been significant. Analysts believe her presence on the international stage may indicate the final stage of her succession.

The relations between Cyprus and Greece are under strain due to Finance Minister Keravnos's refusal to approve the release of €25 million for the electrical interconnection project. His statements express doubts about the project's viability, despite funding being outlined in a 2024 agreement. The Cypriot government is concerned about delays in marine research that could affect the interconnection's functionality. The Greek Deputy Prime Minister stated that the project is of strategic importance at the European level and not just a national initiative. This crisis raises concerns among Cypriot consumers regarding energy supplies.

Attorney General George Savvides called on the Anti-Corruption Authority to clarify which three corruption cases did not proceed. He emphasized that the public has the right to know. Specifically, it was noted that the cases involve the Police and the same individual. This statement follows recent discussions in the Institutions Committee, where progress in investigating complaints was mentioned. Among the cases is the one involving MP Marino Sizopoulo.

A 33-year-old woman was arrested for driving under the influence of alcohol after colliding with a truck on the Nicosia – Limassol highway. There were no injuries, but the vehicles sustained minor damage. In the preliminary alcohol test, she tested positive with a reading of 182μg%. The final test showed a level of 148μg%, exceeding the legal limit. The Traffic Police are continuing their investigations.

Michalis Vorkas, president of the Cyprus Bar Association, highlighted that the judicial process in Cyprus is extremely slow, taking 17 years for a court decision. During a meeting of the parliamentary committee, he pointed out that the European Commission's report on the Rule of Law contains misleading information. His remarks sparked a discussion on improving judicial procedures. MP Andreas Pasiourtidis also agreed, stressing the lack of public trust in the justice system. Changes are needed to make judicial processes faster and more effective.

Russian President Vladimir Putin has expressed his willingness to meet with Ukrainian counterpart Volodymyr Zelensky, provided the meeting is well-prepared. He indicated that there is potential for a peace agreement to end the conflict. Washington also shows willingness to assist in finding a solution. However, he warned that without an agreement, Russia will pursue its objectives through military action. On military operations, he stated that Russian forces are advancing and Ukraine lacks the capacity for large-scale attacks.

The Attorney General of the Republic addressed the situation concerning the LNG terminal project. He noted that the case is under investigation by the European Public Prosecutor's Office (EPPO), which excludes national authorities from conducting parallel investigations. The EPPO has initiated a criminal investigation into potential offenses related to the awarding process. Furthermore, a senior legal official represented him in the Parliament regarding public contracts. This situation highlights international cooperation in investigating corruption cases.

The Attorney General, Giorgos Savvidis, announced that a criminal investigation into the gas terminal in Vasilikos cannot proceed due to an ongoing investigation by the European Public Prosecutor's Office. He explained that according to EU regulations, national authorities cannot conduct investigations when the European Prosecutor's Office is already involved. Only if the European Prosecutor identifies a criminal issue outside of its jurisdiction can national authorities proceed. The Attorney General emphasizes the importance of avoiding speculation and inaccurate information about this matter.

Drivers are upset as they discover that despite having paid for their vehicle registration renewals, their registrations have not been recorded in the system. Many receive fines from the Traffic Police, unaware that their renewals failed due to a system issue. The situation worsens as citizens must prove they are not at fault for the fines. The Department of Road Transport is unable to provide immediate solutions, causing further inconvenience. Drivers are forced to send emails to claim their rights regarding the issue.

The lack of nurses in Cypriot hospitals is causing serious issues. Private hospitals and medical representatives warn that patients will suffer without immediate solutions. The government acknowledges the situation but is not taking necessary actions. The absence of action has led to a loss of nursing graduates seeking work abroad. The organizations urge the government to act promptly to improve the situation.

The police in the occupied area of Trikomo have arrested the lawyer of the five Greek Cypriots who are being held unlawfully. The lawyer, Murat Metin Hakkı, was handling cases regarding the properties of these individuals. The five are charged with unlawful entry to property and causing public disturbance. Additionally, they face charges related to the violation of personal data protection laws, for which the file has not yet been prepared.

On September 3, 2023, a ruling was made in the double murder case in Ypsonas, where victims Mario Onisiforou and Michalis Michail were killed with a knife. Andreas Konstantinou was sentenced to 20 years in prison for manslaughter, while his accomplice Stelios Antoniou received the maximum penalty of life imprisonment. The court highlighted the increase in manslaughter cases and the severity of such crimes. Although both were involved, Konstantinou was not found guilty of premeditated murder. The court's decision was unanimous, with evidence examined thoroughly.

A businessman from Paphos left €65,000 in his car overnight to deposit in the bank the next day. The car was broken into, and the money was stolen before he realized what had happened. He discovered the damage the next morning when he found the rear window shattered. The police have launched an investigation to identify the perpetrators, who appear to have observed his movements. This incident highlights the dangers of leaving cash in vehicles.

The President of the Republic, Nikos Christodoulides, discussed support measures for areas affected by recent wildfires in Limassol. The government has already provided immediate financial aid to families and professionals, including farmers and tourism businesses. Additionally, measures are planned to support communities and restore infrastructure. The President stated that Cyprus's economic condition allows for full support of those affected by the fires. The government is considering new programs for land clearing and environmental restoration.

A court in India sentenced a man to death for murdering his wife, Lakshmi, because he didn't like her dark skin color. The perpetrator burned her alive using a substance he claimed would lighten her skin. Lakshmi, who suffered continuous humiliation from her husband, succumbed in the hospital after hours. The judge described the crime as shocking and condemnable, representing a violation of human rights. This case highlights racist attitudes towards dark skin in India.

On Wednesday morning, the left lane of the Limassol-Nicosia highway was closed due to dirt and gravel falling from a truck. Police and firefighters are on-site to clear the road. Traffic is being diverted to the right lane. The police advise drivers to travel at a safe, reduced speed and maintain a safe distance from other vehicles. They recommend following the instructions of the police present in the area.

In a recent JOKER draw, a lucky ticket won 2 million euros. Additionally, five people won 100,000 euros each. The drawn numbers were 4, 7, 13, 21, and 29, with the joker number being 15. The next draw will take place on Thursday, September 4, 2025, with a jackpot starting from 1 million euros. Draws occur every Tuesday, Thursday, and Sunday.

In Kato Pyrgos, an 85-year-old man, Spyros Zampa, was found dead following a car accident. He left his home in the morning and was reported missing by his relatives in the afternoon. His car was discovered in a ravine, about 200 meters off the road. The elderly man was transported to the Health Center, where his death was confirmed. The police are investigating the circumstances of the accident.

The Cyprus Land Development Corporation (CLDC) is embarking on a new affordable housing project in Strovolos, supported by the Ministry of Interior. The project includes the construction of two buildings with a total of 54 apartments, expected to be delivered within three years. The Ministry of Interior has pledged 12 million euros for the project's financing. Additionally, further projects are planned in Limassol to enhance the availability of affordable rentals. A crucial aspect is securing funding for CLDC after its previous financial difficulties.

The completion of the gas liquefaction terminal at Vasilikos will proceed only after a new roadmap is approved by Technip and E.T.Y.F.A. Currently, the existing design and project implementation are under review. The new roadmap is expected to include proposals for necessary technical changes and cost assessments. Technip is set to deliver its report soon, which will determine the next steps in the process. The goal is to ensure that the resumption of works will be based on a complete and reliable design.

The Ministry of Interior warns parties about changes in seat distribution after the elections. Nicosia risks losing one seat while Paphos may gain one. The distribution will be determined based on the electoral roll from October 2. To maintain 20 seats for Nicosia, an increase in new voters in the area is needed. The low registration participation so far suggests challenges for political parties.

Next Wednesday, the discussion in Parliament will begin regarding 38 bills focused on the reform of the Legal Service and the powers of the Attorney General. The proposed changes include separating roles and creating the position of the General Public Prosecutor. This new role will handle criminal prosecutions and related decisions. Concerns have been raised about how the decisions of the General Public Prosecutor will be reviewed by the Supreme Court. Ongoing discussions will continue regarding the review processes in the future.

President Christodoulides responded to criticism from opposition parties, emphasizing that toxicity and zero-sum politics do not benefit the political climate. He reiterated that the parliamentary elections in May 2026 will evaluate parliamentary parties, not his government. Despite the criticism, he pointed out that unconventional voices benefit from this political atmosphere. He also urged parties to clarify their disagreements with his government, particularly regarding external policy and economic issues. Christodoulides made it clear that his government identifies with the center-right.

The opening of the juvenile detention center in Mennogeia is delayed due to ongoing works at the Reception Center in Limnes, with a postponement of at least 6 months expected. The Minister of Justice and the Commissioner for Children’s Rights visited the site to assess necessary improvements. The juvenile prisons will be operated by the state, with custody responsibilities held by the Central Prisons. There are concerns about the design of the facility, which resembles a detention center. Timelines for project completion have changed multiple times due to local community objections.

Statistics show that over 250 incidents of attacks or resistance against police officers are reported annually. In 2023, there were 274 such incidents, and in 2024, this number increased to 288. By July 2025, there have been 147 cases reported for the current year. This issue has sparked public discussions, especially among police unions. Recent attacks were recorded between August 20 and August 25.