5 Minute News

Donald Trump revealed that a secret weapon called 'The Discombobulator' was used in the capture of Nicolás Maduro in Venezuela. This weapon reportedly disabled the equipment of Maduro's defenders during the operation. Witnesses reported that Maduro's guards experienced severe discomfort and nosebleeds. Maduro is currently held in federal custody awaiting trial on drug terrorism charges. The U.S. maintains good relations with the new Venezuelan government.

A 63-year-old woman was found dead in her home in a community in Paphos by a relative. The police were notified and arrived at the scene. Initial examinations showed no external injuries on the body. The police are investigating her living conditions and examining data related to her death. Investigations into the case are ongoing.

The Larnaca Police are searching for a 30-year-old Greek Cypriot, Stelios Georgiou, following a serious stabbing incident. The suspect is charged with attempted murder and other serious offenses. The incident occurred on January 23, 2026, and the victim's condition is serious but stable. The police are urging anyone with information to assist in locating the suspect. Investigations are ongoing aiming for his arrest.

In Serres, a 60-year-old teacher was arrested for taping a 13-year-old student's mouth shut, claiming he was noisy. The teacher, who is also the principal of the middle school, allegedly instructed another student to bind the victim's hands with tape. The incident was reported to the authorities by the student's mother. The teacher was taken to the Serres prosecutor facing charges of physical injury and illegal violence. This case raises serious concerns about educational behavior and safety in schools.

Banks in Cyprus now have clean loan portfolios, with non-performing loans decreasing significantly. The Central Bank of Cyprus presented positive data on non-performing loans as of the end of October 2025. The MEX ratio dropped to 2.1%, while problematic loans for businesses and households total €1.09 billion. This trend also indicates an improvement in the overdue loans over three months. Southern European banks are showing better performance compared to previous years.

The new teacher evaluation system is starting to be gradually implemented, although its full application is scheduled for 2028. Educators and school directors will participate in training sessions beginning in February to get informed about the new evaluation system. These meetings will cover information regarding the legislation and evaluation procedures. All levels of educators will join online sessions, while directors will have an in-person meeting. Additionally, the evaluation criteria and service plans for the new position of Senior Educator are under review.

A 32-year-old man is in critical condition at Larnaca General Hospital after being stabbed in an attack. Police are investigating the circumstances of the incident, which occurred in a public area. During a search of his apartment, drugs were found. The victim reported that he was attacked with a knife and that his mobile phone was stolen. His health condition remains serious.

25-year-old Andreas Xéniou is fighting every day with the consequences of a serious car accident he suffered two years ago. His parents, filled with anxiety and hope, are trying to move him to a specialized rehabilitation center abroad. Their love and supportive actions give Andreas the strength to recover. However, the refusal of the authorities makes the process difficult. Their story is a touching testament to the power of family and hope in challenging times.

The Labor Disputes Court in Paphos ruled in favor of a female firefighter who experienced discrimination due to her gender within the Service. The woman complained that she did not receive training on the new firefighting vehicles and was given firefighting boots three sizes larger than her actual size. The court awarded damages dating back to 2014 for the discrimination she suffered. This is the first time a female firefighter in Cyprus has been compensated for gender discrimination. The ruling highlights significant issues concerning the training and treatment of women in the firefighting sector.

The veteran members of DISY met to assess the situation ahead of the parliamentary elections. It was noted that there is a lack of organization and a clear political narrative. Emphasis was placed on the need for better message management through media and social networks. Former President Anastasiades highlighted the necessity for common goals and strategy ahead of the elections. The next steps for improving the party's election campaign were also outlined.

The procurement of battle tanks is a strategic decision for the National Guard of Cyprus that will affect its defense capabilities for many decades. Options for new tanks are limited by geopolitical factors, with the French Leclerc and German Leopard 2 being the main contenders. Cyprus needs to select a tank that meets its operational needs for at least 30 years. The Leclerc option appears more attractive due to ties with France, but the cost remains high. The potential purchase of Israeli Merkava tanks has stalled due to the ongoing political situation in the region.

The police are investigating a criminal organization in Larnaca involved in drugs and money laundering. Investigations reveal that they provide 'protection' to nightclubs, operating under a veil of violence and fear. This information comes from videos found on the phone of a detainee, a National Guard conscript. Five people were arrested as members of the organization, with a 42-year-old alleged to be the leader. The investigation confirmed that two organized crime groups are in conflict over control of the area.

The video case depicting a possible corruption mechanism at the Presidential office is under investigation for criminal liabilities. Criminal investigators have received testimonies regarding lobbying legislation. Specifically, they are looking into the involvement of a former government official who received payment for promoting investments in a non-existent company. The lobbying law does not exempt officials from responsibilities when they are involved in decision-making processes. The case is linked to transparency in public decision-making.