In Larnaca, a 31-year-old man was found stabbed and taken to the hospital. He claimed that he was attacked without reason by an unknown person. The police found bloodied apartment keys and traces of blood in a nearby stairwell, but none at the injury site. An apartment rented through Airbnb just two days prior is being investigated. Investigations are ongoing, and the victim has serious injuries.
The Ca' Dario palace in Venice, valued at 17 million euros, remains unsold due to its reputation as a 'haunted' property. The building is linked to numerous dark tales, including murders and suicides. Despite its historical significance and architectural beauty, realtors face challenges in selling it. The renovation of the palace has sparked renewed interest in its sale. However, the rumors surrounding its 'curse' continue to deter potential buyers.
Recent rains have had minimal impact on the water levels in reservoirs, with only 400,000 cubic meters collected. Engineer Marios Hadjikostis emphasizes the need for more heavy rains, particularly in February and March, to improve the situation. The current reservoir capacity stands at only 11%, compared to 26% last year. Snowfall plays a limited role, primarily aiding river flow rather than directly increasing reservoir levels. We need an additional 45 million cubic meters to enhance water reserves.
This afternoon, around 5 p.m., the police were alerted to an injured person in Larnaca. The injured individual was taken to Larnaca General Hospital and appears to have sustained knife wounds. Local authorities are investigating the case to determine the circumstances of the incident. The condition of the injured person has not been clarified. Authorities are working on gathering information.
On Friday, power outages affected areas in Nicosia due to a technical problem with the electricity distribution system. Power has been restored through alternative supplies, but residents are urged to limit their energy consumption. Traffic lights in the Strovolos area are not functioning, and drivers are advised to be cautious. The Electricity Authority is working to repair the damages. Affected areas include Engomi, Agios Dometios, and others.
The amount of natural gas in block 10 of Cyprus's EEZ is estimated to be between 6-9 trillion cubic feet. President Nikos Christodoulides met with ExxonMobil's Vice President John Ardil to discuss future relations. The President highlighted the importance of ExxonMobil's activities in Cyprus's EEZ. Ardil indicated that their operations in the 'Pegasus' field have been successful and expressed a desire to move forward with gas production. The government is open to discussing additional blocks.
The Chief of Police, Themistocles Arnaoutis, has made significant changes to the police leadership by reshuffling three of the four assistant chiefs. Promotions are not limited to higher-ranking officers, as preparations are underway for lower ranks as well. The evaluation process for the positions of sergeant and constable is nearing completion, and new appointments are expected. Many positions in the police remain vacant, and announcements of promotions will be made soon. These changes may also impact crime-fighting efforts.
Two businessmen were arrested in Larnaca as they are being investigated for their connections to a shooting incident. One of them is also a suspect for illegal possession of money, with over €100,000 found in his company offices. Their meetings with the complainant were monitored by the police, who suspect interference in the judicial process. However, the businessmen claim they have no involvement in any criminal activities. The investigation is ongoing, and further developments are anticipated.
Eurofans voted for their favorite songs in the history of the Eurovision Song Contest. Sweden holds the top two spots with songs by Loreen. The Greek entry for 2024, 'Zari' by Marina Satti, is included in the Top 10. Additionally, there are three more entries from Greece and Cyprus in the rankings. This result highlights the public's love for Greek entries and the timeless appeal of Eurovision.
Several areas in Nicosia lost electricity this afternoon due to a fault in the transmission system. Issues were mainly reported in Agios Dometios, Egkomi, and Strovolos, as well as in Lakatamia. The estimated restoration time for Agios Dometios and Egkomi is set for 3:30 PM. There is currently no information regarding the restoration for Strovolos. Residents are staying tuned to updates from the electricity authority.
The court revealed details about a criminal organization operating in Larnaca that imposes 'protection' on nightlife venues. Five Greek Cypriots were arrested, including a soldier, alleged to be connected to drug trafficking and criminal activities. Videos found on their phones may reveal their illegal operations and large sums of money. The trial process is ongoing, and the charges are serious. Reports indicated that the arrested individuals are involved in extortion and are linked to organizations controlling the drug market in the area.
The Supreme Constitutional Court rejected Panikos Chatzipanagi's appeal regarding his promotion at RIK. His promotion had already been annulled by the lower court due to Giannis Nikolaou's seniority. The judge stated that the oral interview could not outweigh Nikolaou's qualifications. Ultimately, the costs of the procedure were imposed on Chatzipanagi. This decision is seen as a victory for Nikolaou.
A 67-year-old man in Britain was sentenced to life imprisonment for 30 years of abuse against his wife, forcing her into sexual acts with hundreds of strangers. He used violence and coercion to satisfy his desires, leading to his conviction after their children received incriminating photos and alerted the authorities. The case highlights severe issues of domestic abuse and psychological trauma. Following the sentencing, the woman expressed her newfound freedom. The identity of the victim remains protected for legal reasons.
President Trump is considering a potential deal with NATO for Greenland that may include American military bases. These proposals are being compared to British bases in Cyprus, which operate under British sovereignty. The idea has raised concerns, as Greenland's Prime Minister emphasized that sovereignty is a red line. The British bases in Cyprus, despite their military significance, do not belong to the Republic of Cyprus. Experts believe that such an arrangement could offer the U.S. significant advantages in the region.
The Organization of State Health Services (OKYPY) is investigating a report concerning a 42-year-old woman who was found in a coma at Larnaca General Hospital. She had undergone a hysterectomy, and two days post-surgery, it was discovered that she had suffered a severe stroke. Her family claims she had reported severe dizziness and did not receive help. Ultimately, she was found on the bathroom floor of the hospital. The family is requesting a thorough investigation into the case and plans to file a report with the police.
Cyprus is expected to be affected by a new storm bringing rain and isolated thunderstorms. The Meteorological Department has issued a yellow warning. This warning will be in effect from 10 PM until 5 PM on Saturday. Heavy rainfall and possible hail are anticipated during the storms. Winds will vary and strengthen throughout this period.
Nicos Sycas is preparing to appeal to the Supreme Court against DISY's decision to exclude him from the electoral list. His lawyer, Christos Pourgouridis, stated that the decision violates the presumption of innocence and justice rules. He also expressed that the process did not adequately examine evidence. He considers the decision to be hasty and finds the argument of lifting immunity comical. Mr. Pourgouridis accused DISY of making a devastating decision for Sycas.
Two businessmen from Larnaca have been arrested and placed in custody for four days, as they are suspected of judicial intervention and conspiracy related to an incident of gunfire. The 47-year-old is additionally charged with illegal possession of property. The police implemented strict security measures during the hearing of the case. A meeting between the businessmen and the complainant on January 21 raised suspicions and led to interrogations. They deny the charges against them.
A Polish woman has been charged with the murder and dismemberment of her partner, Izabela Zablotska. Zablotska's remains were found buried in a garden after 15 years. The accused, Anna Pondetvorna, claims the death was an accident during a fight, asserting self-defense. However, the prosecution dismisses this claim as a lie. Pondetvorna's trial is ongoing.
Foreign Minister Constantinos Kombos explained why President Christodoulides did not attend the event in Davos. Nicosia considers participation in international discussions on peace to be important. Kombos emphasized that Cyprus supports initiatives that strengthen the peace process in Gaza. Additionally, the President had other commitments, which prevented his attendance. Nicosia's stance remains positive regarding peaceful resolutions of disputes, grounded in international law.
A recent violent clash in Larnaca led to multiple arrests, including two well-known businessmen. The arrests are linked to cases associated with organized crime. The businessmen are accused of meddling in judicial proceedings and are expected to appear in court. Additionally, other suspects were arrested during investigations. The police are also looking into possible connections to extortion cases.
The Health Committee postponed the discussion on proposed amendments to the bill aimed at attracting nurses to Cyprus. Representatives of nurses express strong disagreement with the suggested changes. The bill aims to lift restrictions on employing nurses from third countries, provided they have a certificate of Greek language proficiency. Concerns have been raised about the potential outflow of nurses to other European countries. It is argued that bringing in foreign nurses will not solve the staffing shortage issue in Cyprus.
Cyprus is entering a water emergency, as recent rains and snow have not been able to replenish the reservoirs. A 10% reduction in water consumption per household is now necessary to avoid cuts in water supply. This situation has led the government to approve a new emergency package of 31 million euros. The Minister of Agriculture emphasizes the need for investments in infrastructure and desalination projects. If the situation continues, reservoirs may run dry before August.
The approval of the proposal for a common pharmaceutical market in the EU creates prospects for cheaper medicines and addressing shortages. Loukas Fourlas announced an investigation into the students of Rizokarpaso, which will be published on January 30. Michalis Hadjipandelas stressed the importance of the proposal, highlighting savings through bulk purchasing. He also mentioned ensuring the delivery of medicines to countries with shortages, like Cyprus. Lastly, there was a reference to proposals for negotiating tuition fees for European students in London.
The Minister of Justice has received two proposals from private entities for the construction of new prisons. It is considered premature to discuss construction as preliminary studies and community outreach are necessary. The decision for new prisons stems from overcrowding issues in existing facilities. The new initiative has canceled plans for a new wing near the current prison. Discussions about the project have been ongoing since 2000 but have been delayed due to costs.
The Supreme Court ruled that a 41-year-old's DNA cannot be used in a drug-related case because Cypriot law is incompatible with European law. This decision followed a request from the man's lawyer to annul a warrant allowing the police to collect genetic material. The law governing the collection of genetic samples does not meet the necessary conditions and safeguards as stipulated by European directives. Therefore, the DNA will not be used as evidence in the judicial process. This case highlights gaps in Cypriot legislation regarding sensitive personal data.