5 Minute News

A 51-year-old man was arrested after being wanted for three years. He was involved in a drug possession case and participation in a criminal organization. The police had previously released his details to help locate him. Ultimately, he was apprehended based on a court warrant. He is currently in custody for further investigations.

In Mazotos, residents are expressing their opposition to the installation of a mobile desalination unit in the area. During a meeting with the Minister of Agriculture, there were strong reactions and concerns from the residents regarding environmental impacts. The community leader stated that the atmosphere was tense and they did not receive the answers they hoped for. The Community Council has already filed a lawsuit to suspend the Cabinet's decision. The case will be heard in court on June 29.

The European Parliament has approved a new agreement for the rights of air passengers, which includes free seating next to children under 14 and their guardians. The agreement maintains the compensation right for delays over three hours and enhances transparency in ticket pricing. Additionally, passengers will be able to carry a personal item without extra charges. Airlines are required to provide care during long delays. Final approval of the agreement is expected in July.

The Iranian government announced that it will not impose charges on ships passing through the Strait of Hormuz for 60 days. In an agreement with the U.S., Iran's right to levy fees for maritime services is acknowledged. After this period, Iran plans to generate revenue through security and maritime services. While the agreement provides relief to markets, the reality of returning to normalcy is more complex. Many ships remain immobilized, and challenges in shipping persist.

Defense Minister Vasilis Palmas stated that there has been no discussion regarding the permanent presence of Greek F-16s and frigates in Cyprus. He emphasized the ongoing evaluation of the situation in cooperation with the Greek government. He also noted that the recent military agreement with France does not stipulate a permanent military presence. The crisis that erupted in March appears to be easing. The bilateral relationship with Greece is at an excellent level, facilitating cooperation and joint exercises.

Europe has decided to change the rules regarding carry-on luggage and compensation for flight delays after 10 years of negotiations. Passengers will be entitled to financial compensation if flights are delayed by at least three hours. The law, effective from 2027, will allow passengers to take a free small personal item and a larger carry-on bag. Compensation amounts will remain the same as they have been for the past 20 years. Airlines will need to include these items in their ticket prices.

Today, a nationwide test of the CY-Alert system was conducted. Citizens received a test notification on their mobile phones regarding kidnapping or missing person cases. Although the alerts may have caused concern, it was emphasized that there was no real danger. This test was planned to assess the functionality of the system. Citizens were informed that it was a test and not a real emergency situation.

Both lanes of the Limassol – Nicosia highway are closed due to gravel falling from a truck. This situation requires cleaning of the road surface and drivers are advised to be particularly cautious. The Saint George Alamanou exit towards Nicosia is also closed. Authorities are monitoring the situation to ensure driver safety.

The government is set to announce increases in all disability-related benefits. The President informed the members of the Social Alliance about this decision. Approval from the Council of Ministers is expected for both the increases and the inclusion of new beneficiaries. Issues regarding care services for the elderly and chronically ill patients were also discussed. The delay in implementing the 'red button' initiative was also on the agenda.

A nationwide test of the CY-Alert system will take place today from 14:30 to 15:30. Citizens may receive a test notification marked 'TEST'. The notification will not have a loud sound to avoid causing disturbance. Users are required to update their software and enable the notification settings. There is no real danger involved, as this is a scheduled system test.

Two drivers in Limassol got into a fight in the morning, resulting in one sustaining a slight injury to the ear. The incident occurred in Germasogeia when one driver provoked the other, leading to an argument and then a physical altercation. The alleged assailant, reported to be Syrian, fled the scene after injuring the other driver. Fortunately, the injury was not serious. The police are conducting an investigation to locate the assailant.

Starting July 1, 2026, a temporary duty of €3 per item will apply to online purchases from third countries, according to a statement from the Customs Department. The new regulation targets products valued at up to €150 and aims to ensure fair competition for EU businesses. Consumers will face increased costs for certain purchases, and the return process for products is expected to be affected. Notably, exemptions from duties and VAT for gifts valued up to €45 will remain in place. The new measure will be calculated per individual product type.

In the Czech Republic, a 16-year-old was convicted for the rape of his 12-year-old sister, who became pregnant and gave birth. He received a three-year sentence for sexual abuse in their home. The girl was unaware of her pregnancy and faced labor only after being admitted to the hospital. This case has shocked the local community and has become a serious topic of discussion. The 16-year-old has been removed from his home and will undergo therapy for sexual offenders.

Four elderly siblings lost their lives in a fire that broke out in a container where they were living in Konitsa. Their ages were 69, 75, 83, and 88. They lived without electricity and the fire may have been caused by a candle they used for light. Firefighters found the four deceased during the firefighting efforts. Their living conditions had previously attracted the attention of social welfare services.

According to the ECB's analysis, banks in Cyprus closed 370 branches and reduced their workforce by 4,634 over a decade. From 2012 to 2025, employees decreased from 12,853 to 6,349, with most departures coming from voluntary exit programs and retirements. The digitization of banking services has reduced the need for staff and physical branches. Bank of Cyprus and other banks continue to pursue staff reduction plans. At the EU level, there was an overall reduction in branches by 2.62% in 2025.

The Cyprus University of Technology is advancing a significant development project in Limassol, known as the Second Development Pole, covering 57,500 square meters with a budget of €104 million. The new site will feature student residences, new faculties, and a health center, enhancing Limassol's status as an academic and research hub. The rector of CUT, Panagiotis Zafeiris, mentioned that the planning for this development is progressing swiftly. The project aims to upgrade the academic community and social life in the city. Strong political support is evident, with project completion anticipated in the future.

The Educational Psychology Service and the Counseling and Career Guidance Service of the Ministry of Education have prepared a joint action framework to address school violence. This policy aims for immediate and effective interventions in cases of serious violence or delinquency. The presence of a unified framework is expected to establish common practices for recognizing and managing incidents, improving safety in schools. The document warns that the lack of preventive measures can lead to an increase in violence incidents. Finally, it emphasizes the distinction between serious incidents and milder forms of violence in the school environment.

The food we consume may not be as safe as we think. The World Health Organization and experts warn about the rise of foodborne illnesses and the dangers posed by chemicals. On average, 855 million people fall ill each year from unsafe food. Particularly alarming are the figures indicating that children under five are the most vulnerable. The majority of deaths related to contaminated food are linked to chemical substances.

The Municipality of Paralimni-Deryneia is launching the 'Protaras Riviera' strategy, aiming to highlight the area as an attractive tourist destination. This initiative will promote the cultural and historical values of the region. The strategy includes various actions to enhance the tourism experience. The goal is to engage all stakeholders in tourism, including residents. Training workshops will support understanding of the municipality's new philosophy.

The Technical Chamber of Commerce (ETEK) proposes a 12-point package to revitalize cities, mainly focused on Nicosia. The measures include tax incentives for building renovations and accelerated licensing processes. The goal is to increase the population and ensure functional use of properties. Emphasis is placed on enabling access to urban centers through improved parking regulations. ETEK aims for a sustainable solution for unemployment and the enhancement of public spaces.

During the European Council meeting in Brussels, President Christodoulides will present the outcomes of the Cypriot EU Presidency. EU leaders will focus on the new Multiannual Financial Framework and the competitiveness of the European economy. Antonio Costa emphasizes the importance of the session in addressing geopolitical challenges. The collaboration among the three institutions will help in finding common solutions. Economic issues will dominate the discussions among the leaders.

The Sustainable Urban Mobility Plan (SUMPs) for Limassol is at a critical stage due to social unrest and tight deadlines. Ongoing works on significant roads in Limassol have led to disputes and poor communication among authorities. The Minister of Transport acknowledged the issues and stated that necessary actions are required for compliance. The Mayor has requested a temporary suspension of works until a joint meeting can be held. Timely completion of the projects is crucial for the disbursement of European funds.

The European Union is crucial for progress in the Cyprus issue, as evidenced by communications between Antonio Guterres and Antonio Costa. President Christodoulides will meet EU leaders in Brussels to discuss their role in restarting talks. Nicosia views EU support positively and emphasizes that Turkey must show intent before the Union takes action. Turkey's requests include participation in the SAFE program and other arrangements. Menelaos Menelaou aims to connect Turkey's expectations with the European Union in this new effort.