A fire broke out at a high school in Nicosia on Tuesday evening. The fire started from some trash bins on the first floor of the school. The Fire Service responded with two vehicles, and damage included affected flooring and corridors. The scene will remain secured for further examinations tomorrow.
On Tuesday afternoon, a dramatic motorcycle chase took place from Nicosia to Larnaca. The motorcycle driver, without registration plates, refused to stop and sped away, running red lights. The chase ended at Kalo Chorio in Larnaca, where the driver was stopped by a police checkpoint. During the arrest, he resisted and his passenger verbally attacked the officers. Both are set to appear in court the following day.
Tychikos has completed his medical examinations, and doctors advised him to avoid mental stress. His health has improved, and he intends to consult with heart surgeons. If no issues arise, he will return to Cyprus. There were offers to cover his expenses from others, but his family will take care of it. The Holy Synod noted omissions by the Church of Cyprus but suggests that the same punishment for Tychikos should remain.
Today, residents of Aglantzia protested against the violence that occurred during a school event, which resulted in serious injuries. The citizens stated that such incidents are not isolated and called on the government to ensure safety in schools. They request increased security measures and patrols to prevent violent actions. Additionally, they want criminal elements to be removed from their neighborhoods. Overall, parents are expressing their concern for the safety of their children.
The new app Insavior provides protection for women by allowing them to notify other women and their contacts in case of danger. The initiative arose from the need to safeguard against incidents of violence. The app is approved for individuals over 18 and requires a verification process. It features three levels of SOS alerts, depending on the risk situation. Its aim is to ensure safe networking and support for women.
Alexia, who was struck by a stray bullet in 2019, participated in this year's October 28 parade, receiving applause from the crowd. Despite the challenges of her rehabilitation, she continues her fight with the support of her mother and classmates. This day was seen as joyful and symbolic for her family, representing hope and resilience. Her uncle stated that Alexia attends her classes as best as she can and that the family stands by her side. The incident has left her with serious health consequences, yet she continues to persevere.
In Crete, a 24-year-old Sudanese man was arrested for domestic violence against his 38-year-old Somali girlfriend. The argument that broke out at a hotel in Hersonissos escalated into a violent attack, with the assailant hitting her and grabbing her by the throat. In her report, the woman stated that she was kicked and punched. The police intervened, and the 24-year-old was arrested, while the woman was taken to a hospital. He now faces legal consequences for his actions.
A foreign man, aged 40, caused a disturbance at the Limassol Police Directorate. Initially, he refused to leave a shelter and was taken to the police station. Later, he returned and attacked a female police officer. The police intervened quickly and arrested him. A case has been filed against him in court.
A tragic fatal accident occurred in Limassol on the morning of October 28, involving a 45-year-old motorcyclist, Petros Voutis, who collided with a pickup truck. The collision was so severe that Petros died instantly. He was a father of two young children and was planning to marry soon. Investigations are underway to determine the cause of the accident, as it appears the motorcyclist lost control and veered into oncoming traffic. Fortunately, the driver of the pickup truck was not injured.
President Christodoulides commented on the recent statements of the new Turkish Cypriot leader, Tufan Erhürman, stating that everyone will be judged at the negotiating table. He emphasized his desire for an end to the occupation and reunification of Cyprus. The President mentioned that he has attempted to communicate with Erhürman but has not received a response. He also honored Greece's fight against Nazism and fascism. He stressed that he will continue efforts for the liberation of our homeland.
Eirini Charalambidou is proposing changes to the public gatherings law following recommendations from the OSCE. The amendments aim to ensure the right to peaceful protest and reduce arbitrary actions in the dissolution of gatherings. The law will require strict conditions on the actions of the police and the organizers. The proposal includes limitations that must meet strict criteria of legality and proportionality. These changes seek to enhance the protection of civil rights in Cyprus.
A British family decided to leave the UK and move to Cyprus in search of a better future for their daughter. The couple was concerned about rising crime rates, NHS issues, and the cost of living crisis. They sold their home and resigned from their jobs to start a new life in the sun. Now, they enjoy more financial stability and quality family time. They have no plans to return to the UK in the near future.
Donald Trump has opened the possibility of running for a third presidential term in 2028, stating he has very good chances. He denied the idea of running for vice president. Trump mentioned potential successors and highlighted his good health. His medical test results were positive. These statements have sparked reactions in the US.
Theodoros Kyriakou points out that pressures on Bishop Leontios to claim the Metropolitan throne of Paphos have not been fruitful due to his age and health issues. He suggests that collaboration between Archbishop Georgios and Metropolitan Nikiforos of Kykkos could lead to a regular election of a new Metropolitan. The new Metropolitan will need time to heal the wounds left by the previous Metropolitan, Tychikos. The upcoming elections are expected to be challenging and will also include the Locum Tenens of the archiepiscopal throne. The next Metropolitan of Paphos is likely to be elected in early next year.
The two suspects in the murder of Stavros Dimitriou are aware that the motorcycle used in the crime belongs to the 30-year-old, who admitted to purchasing it. The 59-year-old denied any involvement, but evidence suggests he was aware of the motorcycle's purpose. Both suspects were summoned by the court for a renewal of their custody. The motorcycle's owner provided details of the sale, implicating the others. Further testimonies are expected in the case.
A 39-year-old Greek national has been released after an eight-day detention, as his involvement in the murder of Stavros Dimosthenous was not substantiated. Although authorities had deemed him a 'key figure' in the case, the evidence was insufficient. He claimed he was in the area to use drugs. Two suspects, aged 58 and 30 from Nicosia, remain in custody. The vehicle of the 39-year-old was recorded near the crime scene, but the evidence did not connect him to the crime.
The newspaper 'Filerimos' from October 28, 1964, is being reissued today alongside the current edition, celebrating 70 years of the publication. The paper highlights the celebrations of the 'No' Day, emphasizing the importance of unity. Additionally, it includes mentions of other historical moments, such as the awarding of the Nobel Prize in Literature to George Seferis. This edition serves as a tribute to the history of Hellenism. The revival of this issue underscores the continuity and tradition of Greek journalism.
The appointment of Anna Aristotelous as the new director opens the way for new announcements in the prison sector. Four positions will be filled, including Aristotelous, who has faced allegations in the past. Following her departure from the Central Prisons, there are priorities regarding the director's position. The government aims to appoint a permanent director to tackle ongoing issues. Frequent changes in administrative staff are not helping the situation.
A year after the contract for the construction of the Paphos – Polis Chrysochous road was terminated, not a single meter of road has been built. The company Aktor, which failed to meet its obligations, appealed to the Review Authority, blocking the process. The Public Works Department was forced to extend the bid submission deadlines due to legal proceedings. The new deadline for bids is set for February 6, 2026. Developments are awaited in the hearing of the appeal scheduled for November 3, 2025.
Schools are facing serious issues with addictive substances, as 91 minors have been referred to treatment programs in the last two years. Of these, 18 have completed their therapy, while others are at various stages of the program. The Drug Enforcement Agency (YKAN) collaborates with schools for prevention and treatment of these issues. Their partnerships include assigning special police officers to schools and procedures for evaluating incidents. The situation is alarming as the age of children starting to use drugs is decreasing.
The date for the parliamentary elections in Greece, set for May 24, 2026, may be changed due to the EuroLeague Final Four and an Iron Maiden concert in Athens, both coinciding with the election date. These events raise concerns among political parties as increased bookings from Cypriot tourists are expected, which might affect voter turnout. There are also constitutional constraints regarding the dissolution date of the Parliament. Currently, the Parliament is expected to dissolve on April 23. However, it seems unlikely that the election date can be moved earlier than May 24.
The community council of Fterikoudi is seeking to register and widen a 2.5 km road leading to the Monastery of St. Abakum, which raises legal and environmental concerns. The existing road needs to be widened to 5.5 meters, necessitating a special ecological assessment because it passes near Natura 2000 areas. Legal access is essential for the monastery's regularization, which was built without permits. The case is currently under judicial review due to unauthorized constructions. Project modifications have been made in response to concerns from the Department of Game and Fauna.
A new strategic partnership agreement between Cyprus and France is set to be signed, covering economy, energy, and defense sectors. The agreement is in its final stages, with minor details being discussed ahead of President Macron's visit to Cyprus. France expresses its readiness to support Cyprus during its upcoming Presidency of the EU. The meeting focused on issues like support for Ukraine and negotiations for the EU's budget framework. Both countries aim to strengthen their cooperation on strategic matters.
The reform of the Public Service is facing challenges as the Ministry of Finance abolishes written exams for specific positions in the Legal Service. These positions will be assessed by Advisory Committees instead of through examination centers. This decision acknowledges the specialized nature of these roles. The measure ensures that candidates are evaluated based on their personality and ability to represent the state in significant cases. These changes highlight the need to adapt hiring processes to the demands of the Legal Service.