On Saturday night, a fatal motorcycle accident occurred in Limassol, resulting in the death of 17-year-old ALI TZALALOUTIN from Syria. Witnesses report that the motorcyclist was speeding and failed to stop at a STOP sign, causing a collision with a vehicle. The impact was so severe that the car ended up crashing into a house's wall. The driver of the car underwent drug and alcohol tests, which returned negative results. The motorcycle ridden by the minor was reported stolen.
The police arrested a 24-year-old man for possession and distribution of child pornography via an online application. The man had four accounts through which he sent illegal material to others. During his arrest, a mobile phone was found, which will undergo forensic examination. Additionally, a search of his apartment uncovered more evidence, including a second phone and a laptop. The investigation is ongoing.
President Nikos Christodoulides stressed that the citizens' right to protest is guaranteed and respected. He noted that recent protests are not prohibited and that the police act within the law. He mentioned Cyprus's recognition by the international community for humanitarian aid to Gaza. He emphasized that developments regarding Gaza should remain outside of electoral discussions. He reiterated that the government will not engage in the elections.
A shocking case of child abuse has emerged in Bradford, involving a 42-year-old man sentenced to 23 years in prison for the systemic exploitation of a 15-year-old girl under social services' care. The girl was victimized by at least 18 men, and the case came to light in 2019 when she reported her experiences as an adult. Authorities are investigating a network of child exploitation, with total sentences of 91 years imposed on the offenders. The judge's fierce remarks highlighted the seriousness of the offenders' actions, emphasizing the deep harm caused to the vulnerable child.
About 1,600 appointments have been scheduled for the replacement of Takata airbags before the October deadline. Vehicle owners who have not responded are urged to check their cars' status and schedule appointments. Notably, many Toyota and Honda vehicles remain outstanding. The Director of the Department of Road Transport emphasizes the need for drivers to act promptly for their safety. The necessary correction process for vehicles is crucial for public safety.
In Thessaloniki, two young individuals were injured in an incident early in the morning. A 19-year-old Cypriot suffered a stab wound to the back. A 20-year-old Greek was hurt on the head. Both were taken to AHEPA hospital. Police are investigating whether a fight occurred during their outing.
Irene Charalambidou expressed her views on the upcoming parliamentary elections in May. She made it clear that she will not be marginalized to accommodate anyone. She emphasized that she will make her decisions when she feels ready, referring to unfounded scenarios about her political future. She highlighted the importance of democracy and the free choice of citizens. She stated that her consistency to her principles is fundamental, even when she disagrees with her party, AKEL.
A 26-year-old man is hospitalized in serious condition at the General Hospital of Nicosia following a car accident in the Famagusta district. The incident occurred around 1:30 a.m. when he lost control of his vehicle, resulting in it overturning in a nearby field. Fire Service intervention was needed to rescue him from the vehicle. He is suffering from multiple fractures and his health condition is considered serious. The police are investigating the causes of the accident.
The Turkish research vessel 'Piri Reis' has set sail from the port of Smyrna for scientific research in the Aegean, covering a wide maritime area. Ankara issued a NAVTEX from October 4 to 14, raising concerns in Athens. The Greek government responded with an anti-NAVTEX, emphasizing that the areas included are illegal. Turkish political parties supported the initiative for research, viewing it positively. This situation follows recent developments regarding exploration south of Crete.
Sean 'Diddy' Combs was sentenced to 50 months in prison and a $500,000 fine by a Federal Court in New York. The judge highlighted his arrogance and cruelty, stating that he used his power to humiliate his victims. The trial revealed dark aspects of the music industry, including abuse and violence. Diddy remained silent during the announcement of his sentence. The decision sends a strong message that justice demands strictness against the abuse of power.
The licensing application for the reception hall in Lymbia has stalled due to zoning violations. There is a blame game between the District Autonomous Authority and the Department of Town Planning. Although the hall is actually operating as a dance center, the approval process is incomplete. The Interior Minister has tasked the DA to handle the issue, but communication has been limited. Problems with the licensing persist, leaving the situation uncertain.
Starting Monday, a discussion will take place in the pseudo-parliament regarding a resolution for a two-state solution in Cyprus. This move, proposed by Ersin Tatar, aims to politically legitimize the Turkish position. The resolution seeks to influence Turkish Cypriot voters ahead of upcoming elections. The process aims to limit dissenting voices against the proposed solution. Meanwhile, new polls indicate that Tufan Erhurman is leading in voter preferences.
The Cyprus Police is making changes to the investigation of sudden and unnatural deaths. The new regulations clarify that the police are responsible for conducting investigations, not the forensic experts. These updates arise from public discussions regarding accountability in death investigations, especially after the case of a young man killed by police gunfire. The Attorney General appointed an independent investigator who found no criminal liability. This issue strengthens the debate on who has the final authority in determining criminal causes of death.
A group of three young Cypriots has created the Cyprus Procurement platform to democratize the service market in the private sector. Through this platform, citizens and businesses can search for and provide services, including collaboration with contractors and professionals. Registration is easy, allowing for quick connections between interested parties. So far, several companies and individuals have registered, indicating strong interest in the service. With Cyprus Procurement, the founders aim to make the market fairer and more efficient.
The revised text from the Ministry of Education regarding the teacher evaluation system will soon be presented to the parliamentary Education committee. It includes proposals obtained from discussions with educational organizations aimed at improving the evaluation process. A key point is that teachers deemed inadequate will participate in a support program lasting three to six months. If they are found inadequate again, the case will be referred to the Educational Service Committee. The program may also be extended into the following school year if necessary.
The Parliament of Nicosia is undergoing renewal, with about one-third of current MPs choosing not to run in the upcoming elections. The adoption of term limits for public officials is causing significant changes. Three MPs from DISY are leaving due to this term limit, along with several other notable politicians. There are possibilities for shifts as some MPs may be proposed by other parties. The electoral landscape in Nicosia is continuously evolving, with new political forces vying for seats in Parliament.
A crucial meeting will take place on Monday with the Finance and Labor Ministers and the President, where the issue of AΤA will be discussed. The President's intervention brings hope for a resolution but has raised concerns about potentially sidelining the Labor Minister. Unions are on edge as they were not informed about this development. The government clarified that both ministers were aware of the President's intervention and that the framework for discussions remains unchanged. If an agreement is reached, both sides will need to make concessions.
The bill for the establishment of the Cypriot Food Safety Authority is nearing completion. This Authority aims to ensure the quality of food and animal feed, as well as consumer protection. It will supervise and inspect other authorities and laboratories, and its recommendations will be binding. Additionally, it will participate in shaping the national strategy for food chain safety and will be responsible for the training of inspectors. Finally, it will also function as a contact point with international organizations to tackle risks in the food chain.
The Republic of Cyprus is set to take over the presidency of the EU Council in the first half of 2026, prompting maintenance work on historical monuments. One such site is the house of Hatzigeorgakis Kornesios, which is long overdue for extensive renovation. The work includes restoring the dangerous wooden balcony and other parts of the building. The renovation is expected to be completed in time for events related to the Cypriot presidency. The house is a significant example of 18th-century Cypriot architecture and serves as a museum.
Since 2014, there have been 43 femicides recorded in Cyprus, with the latest involving a 62-year-old Iranian woman killed by her ex-husband. Most femicides stem from situations of domestic violence, where women feel trapped and afraid to react. Although there has been a reported decline in femicides in recent years, the threat remains real. The social attitudes linking male authority to female submission continue to impact the lives of many women. Authorities and NGOs are trying to provide support and protection for victims, but reports of violence remain high.