5 Minute News

last year

A Turkish Airlines aircraft flew over the free areas of Nicosia. The flight, THY2AF, took off from the airport in Tymbou with a destination of Antalya at 9:10 PM. Its flight path is visible in a related image. This occurrence has sparked reactions. The situation highlights ongoing tensions.

The investigations into the murder of Stavros Dimosthenous continue. Two 28-year-old Greek expatriates from Georgia are in custody as suspects. One suspect provided details about illegal activities and claimed he had procured drugs. However, the other chose not to answer any questions from the investigators. Authorities plan to refer the case to the Criminal Court.

Italian society is in shock over the robbery and rape of a young couple by a group of migrants in Rome. The incident occurred on October 25, when the assailants attacked the couple while they were in their car. The attackers stole the girl's phone and raped her while her boyfriend was held back. Police arrested three Moroccans, but investigations continue to determine if more individuals were involved. The couple was terrified and called the police immediately after the incident.

A 32-year-old man from Limassol has been arrested following serious allegations from his ex-partner. The woman accused him of stalking, blackmailing, and psychologically abusing her, and claimed that he even struck her with his vehicle. After his threatening behavior in a shop, the police were alerted. The man was brought before the court and has been remanded in custody on serious charges. He did not cooperate with the authorities, stating he would seek legal counsel first.

The lawyer of an inmate who reported a rape in the Central Prisons is requesting an independent criminal investigation into the case. She highlights serious omissions by the authorities and the lack of progress in the investigation three months after the complaint. The letter notes that evidence is still accessible to individuals under investigation. It addresses allegations of corruption and threats within the prisons. The case raises questions about the operation and transparency of the correctional system.

A 48-year-old man charged with murdering his father in Limassol has denied the charge in court. The court is examining his mental state, given a history of severe mental illness. A psychiatric evaluation indicated that he is fit to stand trial, although he requires medication. The case unfolds within a complex legal framework, with the accused planning to mount a defense based on his mental health. The next hearing is scheduled for February 2026.

Bishop Tyhikos is counter-attacking instead of apologizing, urging Archbishop George to admit to 'Latinizing' and recognizing the Pope. His lawyer, Evaggelia Poulla, cited church canons to support her claims. She accused the Archbishop's actions as illegal and uncanonical. The Archbishop stated that the deadline for Tyhikos is approaching. Poulla mentioned that no one has reached out to Tyhikos to wish him well.

Famous German actor Udo Kier passed away at the age of 81 in a California hospital. He was distinguished for his 275 roles in cinema, collaborating with renowned directors like Andy Warhol and Gus Van Sant. In Cyprus, he was awarded the Lifetime Achievement Award at the Cyprus Film Days Festival. His presence at the festival left a significant legacy for cinema. His legacy will continue to inspire creators and audiences worldwide.

The Anti-Corruption Authority states that it will not comment on reports related to the Assistant Attorney General without official statements from the involved parties. It acknowledges that it faces pressure from politicians and journalists to address the reports but emphasizes that the information often consists of rumors. Additionally, the Authority explains that it does not always inform the public about the complaints it investigates, as per legislation. The processes involve two stages, with only the complainant being notified if the complaint is dismissed. It is noted that these processes existed before the current members of the Authority took office.

A military armored vehicle of the National Guard overturned near the village of Klirou during a training exercise. Two members of the National Guard were taken to the hospital, but their health condition is not concerning. Their injuries appear to be minor and there are no serious consequences. The incident occurred shortly after 11:00 on a dirt road. The news has been confirmed by a representative of the National Guard.

Archbishop Georgios announced that a private school of the Archdiocese will be established in the Feneromeni building, following the failure of an agreement with the University of Cyprus. The agreement collapsed due to the Ministry of Finance's refusal to fund the construction of a new building. The Archbishop stated that the University does not need the building for another school, but for research programs. The new school will focus on enhanced teaching hours in the Greek language and history. This represents a shift in the building's use, which was previously intended for the Architecture School.

On Tuesday morning, a seismic tremor occurred in Cyprus, measuring 3.1 on the Richter scale, with its epicenter in the Paphos district. The European-Mediterranean Seismological Centre is monitoring the situation. Residents were informed about the earthquake through social media. More information will follow. Some may have felt the tremor.

In Larnaca, vandalism and theft have occurred in the city's Christmas decorations. The municipality expresses its disappointment and calls on citizens to respect public spaces. Damage was reported to a snowman figure and the Christmas tree. The municipality encourages everyone to help preserve the festive atmosphere. Additionally, they ask for information to help the police identify those responsible.

The Cyprus Nurses' Association (PASYN) announced that they are entering a phase of dynamic mobilizations due to their exhausted patience. Nurses are reporting that public health facilities are suffering from severe understaffing, impacting patient safety. General assemblies showed significant participation and determination from the sector to demand changes. The situation is critical and requires immediate solutions from OKyPY and responsible authorities. PASYN warns that the quality of healthcare services is seriously threatened.

A fire broke out in an apartment building in Nicosia, resulting in one person being hospitalized with burns. Two other individuals sought refuge on the roof and required assistance from the firefighters to evacuate. The fire started in a ground floor apartment and spread to neighboring units, causing extensive damage. The Fire Department reported that the causes of the fire are under investigation in collaboration with the Police. Fortunately, the injured individuals were conscious and received prompt help.

Ukrainian and European officials are attempting to reshape Donald Trump's peace plan regarding the war in Ukraine. The plan appears to favor Russia's demands, causing concern in Kyiv. Vladimir Putin is monitoring the situation and has stated that Russia may continue to impose its positions by force. Ukrainians remain resilient but face challenges due to limited resources and a lack of support. The Russian economy is struggling, but Moscow is trying to fund the war by increasing taxes.

The Auditor General Andreas Papakonstantinou issued a critical report regarding the handling of the Cyprus Ports Authority in relation to the construction of a harbor and gas pipelines in Vasilikos. The implementation of the project, which was deemed urgent in 2021, remains incomplete as of 2025 with increased costs. Excessive time was spent on discussions and preparation, while amendments to initial documents raise questions. The two bids received had significant rejection reasons. This situation raises concerns about the state's energy policy.

The police are investigating a case of attempted murder that occurred in Larnaca. A 32-year-old man was arrested after attacking a 49-year-old with a knife. The 49-year-old sustained injuries to his neck and arms and was taken to the hospital, where he was treated and later discharged. A warrant was issued for the 32-year-old's arrest. The case is being investigated by the Aradippou Police Station.

There are developments in the Central Prisons regarding the case of documents found in a prison officer's home. Former director Anna Aristotelous and former deputy director Athena Dimitriou are undergoing proceedings for suspension due to criminal charges. Today, a decision from the EDC is expected concerning the suspension of Ms. Dimitriou. A legal opinion is pending regarding Ms. Aristotelous's case before she assumes the role of general director. Meanwhile, changes are planned within the correctional system to address issues inside the prisons.

Michalis Giakoumis from the DIPA sent a letter to Mario Karoyan requesting official information regarding statements made by Nikola Papadopoulos about potential collaborations. He argued that he has not been informed about any initiatives related to the party's political strategy. He stated that the lack of information creates confusion among members and voters. He called for the party's collective bodies to convene to ensure unity, reliability, and transparency. Kleanthous commented that the issue is purely political.

This year, influenza, coronavirus, and respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) have appeared earlier in Cyprus, with doctors noticing increased cases daily. The flu has arrived nearly a month earlier than usual, while more Covid-19 cases have also been reported. Pediatricians are detecting RSV cases, which have a delay in appearance this year. While vaccines may not provide 100% coverage, they do protect against severe symptoms. It is crucial to monitor the developments as infections rise in Cyprus and across Europe.

The leader of the Turkish Cypriots, Tufan Erhürman, is promoting the presence of the pseudo-state in international organizations. He advocates for a separate dialogue with the European Union and shows interest in other collaborations. He expresses discontent with President Christodoulides' statements regarding guarantees. Erhürman believes Christodoulides' proposal is an invalid condition for resolving the Cyprus issue. The role of Ankara appears to be significant in Erhürman's proposals.

Discussions have begun regarding the revision of the minimum wage in Cyprus, with 55,000 workers awaiting results. The Minister of Labor has confirmed that an increase will occur from January 2026, depending on the economic growth. Seven steps have been outlined for the meetings, with the next one scheduled for Friday. The final decision will rest with the Council of Ministers and is expected to be made by the end of the month. The EU recommends benchmarks for assessing minimum wage adequacy, with the current minimum wage in Cyprus being 53% of the national median wage.

Four months after the fatal accident in Aglandjia, scientific evidence has been identified that may be crucial for the case. Investigations confirmed the speed of the involved vehicle and other important conditions of the accident. The Traffic Director stated that the person responsible has been determined. The case file was returned to investigators for further actions. The final charges against the driver are pending based on the new evidence.

An investigation into allegations regarding the Cyprus Amateur Boxing Federation revealed serious irregularities. It was found that documents were forged to secure funds from the Cyprus Sports Organization. The inquiry also identified false coaching certificates. The case has been referred to the Attorney General and the Police for criminal investigation. The charges include forgery and obtaining goods under false pretenses.