5 Minute News

2 months ago

Glen Gary Cameron, known as the Night Stalker of Australia, pleaded guilty to 13 rapes of women in the 1990s. At the age of 20, he lured his victims by offering them modeling jobs and then sexually assaulted them. His attacks stopped in 1993 after his last rape. Thanks to advancements in DNA technology, he was arrested in 2024, many decades after evading justice. Cameron has now admitted to the charges against him.

U.S. President Donald Trump stated that NATO countries should shoot down Russian aircraft if they violate their airspace. During a meeting with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky, Trump explained that U.S. support would depend on the circumstances. He expressed respect for Ukraine's struggle. Zelensky thanked Trump for his efforts to stop the war and discussed issues concerning Ukrainian children. The two leaders have many meetings planned for further support of Ukraine.

Erdogan spoke at the UN General Assembly shortly after postponing a meeting with Mitsotakis. He expressed a willingness for cooperation with Greece on energy issues but made provocative remarks regarding Cyprus. He stated that there are two states in Cyprus and urged the international community to recognize the 'Republic of Northern Cyprus.' His comments reflect a mixed approach to these two issues. For Erdogan, the Aegean is seen as a potential area for development and peace.

In Limassol, a 22-year-old stole components from the lightning protection system of the General Hospital. His actions were recorded by a surveillance camera, while the hospital's electrician monitored him live. After the incident was reported to the authorities, the young man was arrested and confessed to stealing 15 kilograms of copper tape and other components that he later sold. The total value of the stolen items amounted to €1,576. The 22-year-old was brought before the court, where his detention for three days was ordered.

Georgios Lakotrypis, former Minister of Commerce, discusses Cyprus's energy ecosystem. He analyzes four key areas: natural gas, oil reserves, electricity interconnection, and renewable energy sources (RES). He emphasizes that Cyprus is facing an energy deadlock. His insights are important for understanding both the past and the necessary steps for the future. Viewers can submit questions during the live discussion.

In the past four years, 30 complaints of gender discrimination were submitted to the Commissioner for Administration and Human Rights. Of these, 21 were related to sexual harassment in the workplace. All complaints came from women. The Commissioner made binding recommendations to the relevant authorities in accordance with the law. However, in some cases, the administrations did not adequately respond to the Commissioner's requests.

The meeting between Mitsotakis and Erdogan in New York has been postponed. The Turkish side requested the postponement due to Erdogan's participation in a meeting of Arab and Muslim leaders. There are ongoing efforts to find available times for a rescheduled meeting. The situation remains fluid. More details will follow.

Energy Minister George Papathanasiou stated that the liquid natural gas terminal project in Vasilikos is feasible and will be completed. He mentioned that the ETYFA consultant warned about the risks of calling for bids at this time. The project is currently incomplete, but the key vessel is expected to be ready next month. Depending on the results of a study, next steps will be determined. If no major issues arise, bids for the project's completion will proceed quickly.

In Limassol, approximately 30 cats may have suffered mass poisoning, causing shock and outrage. The cats were found dead at the Sfakianitissa cemetery with foam at their mouths, while four kittens were taken to a veterinarian, two of which did not survive. The Animal Coordinator emphasized that the treatment of animals reflects the humanity of society. The Animal Police are investigating the case, as animal poisoning is a criminal offense under the law. The Action Group is calling for a full investigation and prevention of similar crimes.

There has been an alert in Limassol following a mother's report about an unknown individual approaching her 10-year-old son outside the school. The individual claimed to be a friend of the mother and offered to take the child home. The child declined and walked home instead. The police visited the school for investigations, and the school administration has been informed. Authorities are continuing their efforts to gather testimony and investigate how the suspect was traveling.

A 3.5-year-old boy was found wandering in the area of Polemidia after managing to leave his kindergarten. A passing woman discovered him and took him back to the school. His parents have informed the Welfare Office about the incident. The boy was able to open the school's gate without anyone noticing. So far, no complaint has been filed with the police.

The Audit Office's report reveals that in 2024, 27% of properties in Cyprus were purchased by foreigners, mainly from Russians, Chinese, Lebanese, and Israelis. However, the actual percentage of foreign buyers is higher because sales to Cypriot companies with foreign shareholders are not included in these figures. These transactions are recorded as sales to Cypriots, thus underestimating the presence of foreigners in the market. Additionally, numerous assignment contracts obscure the rights of foreign buyers. There are concerns about the lack of transparency in the real estate market.

The meeting between President Christodoulides and Chevron's president, Javier La Rosa, in New York was highlighted as a vote of confidence for Cyprus's Exclusive Economic Zone (EEZ). The Government Spokesman emphasized the importance of adhering to timelines in the government's energy plans. The development of Cyprus's natural resources remains a priority, with processes expected to be completed by the end of the year. Collaborations with Chevron and the agreement with Egypt are critical for progress in the energy sector. Chevron's presence sends positive messages regarding geopolitical developments in the area.

The case file concerning George Koumas, former president of the Cyprus Football Federation, has been returned to the Legal Service for review. The details of the ongoing investigation remain unclear as those involved remain silent. New investigative actions have been carried out, and testimonies have been taken from individuals under scrutiny. Koumas was summoned for interrogation on July 1, while there is still no official statement from the authorities. The case is progressing, with summer developments adding further intrigue.

Europe is flooded with illegal online pharmacies selling counterfeit medications, particularly weight loss products. Authorities have warned about the risks associated with purchasing these items, as they may be unsafe and dangerous to health. Medications for diabetes are particularly targeted by illegal sales, jeopardizing serious medical conditions. The European Medicines Agency encourages the public to only buy from certified online pharmacies. This situation demands attention and awareness from consumers.

A new bill regarding jointly owned buildings is in the final discussion stage within the Parliamentary Committee on Internal Affairs. The legislation aims to improve management and inspections of approximately 200,000 buildings. Tenants and owners will have access to structural and mechanical checks, enhancing the safety of these buildings. However, the removal of the provision for regular inspections has raised concerns, as its implementation will depend on management committees. The new law is expected to improve the living conditions for residents in these properties.

Costas Kyriakou, known as 'Outopos', has filed a lawsuit against the Cypriot government seeking compensation. This is due to a decision that deprived him of his right to participate in parliamentary elections based on a psychiatric evaluation. He believes his rights were violated. The evaluation was initiated following a request from his relatives. The hearing of his case is taking place at the Nicosia District Court behind closed doors.

The announcement from the ALMA movement has sparked reactions due to a reference to a 'closed alumni club of the English School'. DISY and DIKO expressed concern over the use of toxic and divisive rhetoric. ALMA attempts to clarify that the reference relates to DISY's leadership. Political opponents accuse ALMA of devaluation and attacks on educational institutions. This situation has led to intense discussions on social media.

Vaccinations at vaccination centers are not recorded electronically in the General Health System, causing issues for patients and doctors. Patients receive only paper evidence that can be lost, making it difficult for doctors to access their vaccination history. This situation particularly affects individuals who have undergone transplantation or are immunocompromised. The representative of the Patients' Association has called for an immediate resolution to the issue. Recording vaccinations in the electronic system is essential for effective patient monitoring.

Developments are expected this week regarding a member of the Ministry of Education, Sports and Youth who is accused of indecent assault against a minor and sexual harassment. The Public Service Commission is moving forward with his suspension while he is requesting early retirement. The accused has the right to respond to the suspension request by tomorrow. If he is suspended and later convicted, he may face additional penalties concerning his pension benefits. He is currently on leave from the ministry, and the first court hearing is set for October 30.