A serious car accident occurred at the Kantu exit when the vehicle driven by a 25-year-old crashed into the median divider of the highway. The 25-year-old passenger inspected the damage but was struck by a second vehicle that could not avoid her. She was transported to the hospital and is in the ICU due to severe injuries. The drivers of both vehicles tested positive for drug screening. The condition of the passenger is critical.
The Central Prisons are facing serious allegations of abuse against an inmate, which include sexual assault and physical violence. According to his lawyer, her client was repeatedly raped by fellow inmates who drugged him and attacked him while he was unconscious. The perpetrators threatened him and filmed the abuse, distributing it publicly. The lawyer is calling for an investigation into the case and for his sentence to be suspended. So far, the investigative process by authorities shows significant deficiencies.
A serious traffic accident occurred on the Paphos-Limassol highway, leading to the closure of both traffic lanes. The incident happened when a 25-year-old stepped out of her vehicle and was struck by another car. Authorities responded quickly, advising drivers to use the Kandou exit. Caution and reduced speeds are recommended on the roads. The police are investigating the circumstances of the accident.
The Environmental Impact Assessment for the mixed-use development 'Wolga' in Pyrgos, Limassol is under public consultation until October 24, 2025. The project includes the construction of residential buildings, a hotel, a sports center, and dining areas on a former industrial site. Prior to construction, asbestos-containing abandoned structures will be demolished for public health safety. Around 3,060 tons of waste from demolition is expected, which will be managed carefully. The environmental study remains open for public suggestions until 2025.
A significant archaeological discovery was made in Nicosia, where a necropolis dating back to around 2000 BC was found. This discovery occurred during park construction in the area. The necropolis contains burial complexes and indications of urban planning. Various artifacts, including vessels and skeletons, have been uncovered, and excavations are ongoing with caution. The Department of Antiquities is monitoring the situation to protect the findings from potential looting.
Stefanos Stefanu, the Secretary General of AKEL, stated that the scandals of Vasilikos and the electrical interconnection have specific protagonists, and he plans to send a letter to the Anti-Corruption Authority for investigation. He criticized both the previous and the current government, claiming that the situation results from corruption. He also emphasized the necessity for institutions to investigate the scandals and the European Public Prosecutor's role. Stefanu raised concerns about the funding that Cyprus may miss out on due to these matters. He concluded that if there is political will, there is ample evidence for investigation.
The fee for issuing vehicle MOT certificates is increasing by eight euros. Specifically, the fee will be €43 for private centers and €46 for public inspection centers. This increase is deemed necessary due to rising administrative costs. The changes are part of a bill that has been submitted to the Parliament. The legislation has received approval from the relevant committee.
The Attorney General has appealed the sentence of Giannis Giannakis, former Commissioner of Volunteerism, regarding the use of forged documents. The appeal questions the severity of the imposed sentences based on the seriousness of the offenses. It is argued that the gravity of the misconduct and Giannakis's financial benefits were not adequately considered. Interestingly, Giannakis had also filed his own appeal, focusing on the succession of sentences. This case involves two incidents from 1995 and 1996, for which he received 18-month prison sentences.
The Secretary General of AKEL, Stefanos, plans to send a letter to the Anti-Corruption Authority requesting an investigation into the Vasilikos terminal. In a press conference, he emphasized that there are suspicions of collusion and corruption that need to be investigated. He pointed out that the financial implications go beyond the reported millions and will impact consumers. Additionally, he expressed concern about the handling of the electricity interconnection, highlighting the continuation of past collusion practices by the Christodoulides government.
Recep Tayyip Erdoğan met with Donald Trump at the White House, aiming to restore Turkey's relations with the U.S. He asked for Turkey's return to the F-35 program, new F-16s, and cooperation in energy and defense sectors. Trump appeared willing to exempt Turkey from sanctions, but requested the halt of Russian oil imports in return. The meeting was deemed successful, formalizing two significant energy agreements. Both Turkey and the U.S. seem eager for closer cooperation and a detachment from Moscow.
Jumbo has announced its intention to open two new stores in Cyprus within the next five years. The financial results for the first half of 2025 show an 8% increase in sales compared to last year. Despite challenges in the international environment, the company maintains quality and competitive prices. The Christmas season will be crucial for their financial performance. Although sales have increased, the market may be affected by wholesale pricing.
The amount of natural gas in the 'Pigasos' and 'Glafkos' deposits may reach 8 to 9 trillion cubic feet, according to information from ExxonMobil. The President of the Republic expressed satisfaction with the cooperation after meeting with ExxonMobil's Vice President in New York. The government aims for the swift extraction of natural resources to lower energy costs for Cypriot consumers. Specific actions by the company for resource utilization are forthcoming. The presence of major companies boosts confidence in the Cypriot Exclusive Economic Zone.
According to new data from the Central Bank, deposits in banks in Cyprus have been increasing despite the difficulties faced by the private sector. From the beginning of the year until August, deposits rose by €2.3 billion, reaching a record €56.57 billion. Both household and business deposits saw significant increases, with the bank noting that improved economic conditions contribute to this trend. Depositors are shifting preference towards longer-term deposits. Citizens appear to want to save more, recognizing the positive macroeconomic outlook.
Parents of children with autism are facing challenges in accessing medical services in Cyprus. Some hospital departments refuse to admit individuals with autism and refer them to inappropriate facilities. Authorities have not yet established specialized services for these individuals. The president of KYSOA is calling for intervention from the Presidential Office to ensure vulnerable citizens receive necessary care. She argues that the current conditions violate the fundamental rights of people with autism.
There are recalls for Takata airbags affecting 19,671 vehicles, with 16,818 owners not having scheduled repair appointments. Starting from October 3, 2025, the Certificates of Conformity (MOT) will be canceled for vehicles non-compliant with the recall. So far, 76% of the vehicles have complied, but a significant number remains unresponsive to notifications. The deadlines for completing the recall process are approaching, putting pressure on dealerships. This situation requires immediate attention for public safety.
AKEL is gearing up for the upcoming parliamentary elections, aiming to increase its support to over 22.3%. Stefanos Stefanou will signal the start of the campaign and highlight key issues. The Central Committee will also discuss exceptions to term limits for candidates. Important internal party matters will be addressed in the session, along with expected proposals regarding nominations. The objective is clear, with data suggesting a possibility for optimism.
The DISY proposes new legislation for faster resolution of tax disputes in courts. The aim is to ensure judicial decisions are issued within one year of filing an appeal. This will enhance the effectiveness of the tax system and provide security for citizens and businesses. Quick resolution of tax issues is crucial for the smooth functioning of public administration. The legislation is expected to be discussed by the relevant parliamentary finance committee.
Hospitals in Europe are facing increasing cyberattacks, with 71% of these targeting healthcare structures. The attacks primarily originate from Russia and China, but also from countries like India and Pakistan. These cyberattacks have resulted in serious data breaches and attacks on medical devices. The European Commission has prepared an action plan to enhance cybersecurity in hospitals. The aim is to protect patient data and improve the resilience of healthcare systems.
Nikos Christodoulides' meeting with Antonio Guterres did not yield new information regarding the Cyprus issue, as stakeholders are waiting for developments after the elections in the occupied territories. Attention is now focused on the upcoming trilateral meeting involving the UN Secretary-General, the President, and the Turkish Cypriot leader. Christodoulides noted that a multilateral conference is expected in early November aimed at restarting negotiations. The President approaches Saturday's meeting with a realistic mindset, planning to review the current situation.