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Category: News

  • Kykkos Monastery Denies Fake Miracle Cure Claims

    Kykkos Monastery Denies Fake Miracle Cure Claims

    Kykkos Monastery has found itself at the centre of controversy following a deceptive report claiming its monks have discovered a miracle cure for serious illnesses. This false narrative suggests that the monks are selling this miraculous preparation online, raising concerns within the community.

    The misleading report features an alleged interview with the monastery’s abbot, who supposedly announces this groundbreaking treatment. However, the authenticity of this interview has been called into question, especially as it includes AI-generated images purportedly showing the abbot with doctors from Larnaca. These doctors allegedly approached the monastery after their patients were said to have been cured by the herbal remedy.

    The website promoting this miracle cure describes the concoction as a blend of various herbs, accompanied by testimonies from individuals claiming to have benefited from the treatment. These claims, however, lack credible sources and have sparked alarm among officials.

    Christakis Efstathiou, a spokesman for the Church of Cyprus, addressed the issue, stating unequivocally that no such miracle cure is being sold. He urged the public to exercise caution and not to be misled by these fraudulent claims. Efstathiou confirmed that the Church would refer the matter to Kykkos Monastery, which is expected to release a statement to clarify the situation.

    The monastery’s reputation has been put at risk by this misinformation, and the community is keenly awaiting further clarification. The incident serves as a reminder of the dangers posed by misleading online content, particularly regarding health-related claims.

  • Cyprus weather — Cyprus Weather: Light Rain Expected Before Heavy Weekend Storms

    Cyprus weather — Cyprus Weather: Light Rain Expected Before Heavy Weekend Storms

    cyprus weather — Cyprus weather is set for a spell of light rain on Wednesday, with conditions gradually turning stormy over the weekend. The day will begin with a mix of partly cloudy and intermittent clouds, alongside a chance of isolated light rain.

    • The forecast for Thursday through Saturday indicates a shift towards more unsettled weather. On Thursday, residents can expect similar partly cloudy conditions with a likelihood of isolated showers.

    Cyprus weather: Winds and Sea Conditions

    Morning winds will be variable and light, reaching around 3 Beaufort. As the day progresses, they will shift to predominantly north-easterly and south-easterly directions, becoming light to moderate at 3 to 4 Beaufort. Sea conditions will remain smooth to slight, making for a calm day on the water.

    Temperature Expectations

    Temperatures are anticipated to hover around 22 degrees Celsius both inland and along the coast, while mountainous areas will see cooler conditions, dropping to approximately 12 degrees Celsius. As night falls, the weather will persist in its partly cloudy state, with a continued chance of isolated light rain.

    A Rainy Outlook for the Coming Days

    The forecast for Thursday through Saturday indicates a shift towards more unsettled weather. On Thursday, residents can expect similar partly cloudy conditions with a likelihood of isolated showers.

    As Friday approaches, the clouds will thicken, bringing about localised rain. The afternoon is expected to introduce thunderstorms, starting in the west and south and spreading across the island. This trend of cloudy skies and rain will carry into Saturday, where local rain and isolated thunderstorms are likely to occur.

    Temperature Changes Ahead

    While temperatures are not predicted to change significantly until Friday, a notable drop is on the horizon for Saturday, aligning more closely with seasonal averages. This shift in weather patterns suggests that residents should prepare for a wet weekend ahead.

  • Data breach — Bank of Cyprus Oncology Centre Investigates Possible Data Breach

    Data breach — Bank of Cyprus Oncology Centre Investigates Possible Data Breach

    data breach — The Bank of Cyprus Oncology Centre has detected indications of a possible data breach in its systems, the centre announced. The potential breach was identified on Monday, 1 December, leading to immediate action.

    • In the interim, the Bank of Cyprus Oncology Centre has stepped up its protective measures, reinforcing its systems to safeguard against any potential threats while the review unfolds.
    • Importantly, the centre has stated that no patients have been affected in any way by the detected breach, providing reassurance to both patients and staff.

    Upon discovering the anomaly, the centre promptly notified the Digital Security Authority to ensure that appropriate measures could be taken. To further bolster their response, they activated an agreement with a specialised cybersecurity firm tasked with conducting a thorough technical investigation.

    As part of the ongoing investigation, the Office of the Commissioner for Personal Data Protection has also been informed. The centre is currently working diligently to determine the exact nature and scope of the incident, with a commitment to transparency and thoroughness.

    In the interim, the Bank of Cyprus Oncology Centre has stepped up its protective measures, reinforcing its systems to safeguard against any potential threats while the review unfolds.

    Importantly, the centre has stated that no patients have been affected in any way by the detected breach, providing reassurance to both patients and staff.

  • Pensioner — British Pensioner Allegedly Repatriated from Cyprus Without Heart

    Pensioner — British Pensioner Allegedly Repatriated from Cyprus Without Heart

    pensioner — The body of 76-year-old British pensioner Michael Graley, who died while holidaying in Cyprus, has allegedly been returned to the UK without his heart, raising serious questions about the repatriation process.

    Graley, from Greater Manchester, was reportedly visiting the island with his family when he died shortly after being admitted to a hospital in Paralimni. His wife, Yvonne, 73, shared details of the unfortunate incident, stating that a post-mortem examination was conducted in Cyprus.

    According to Yvonne, when British officials reviewed the documentation, they found that the death certificate had been issued without a specified cause of death. This prompted the coroner’s office in Rochdale to request a second examination.

    During this follow-up examination, it was allegedly discovered that Graley’s heart was missing, preventing the coroner from determining the cause of death. Yvonne described her feelings as “in shock” upon hearing this news.

    Further complicating matters, Yvonne mentioned that Cypriot police later informed her that her husband’s heart had been sent to a research facility, a revelation that has left her seeking answers. As of Monday afternoon, police in Cyprus had not provided additional information in response to inquiries from the Cyprus Mail.

    This incident highlights the potential challenges and concerns surrounding the handling of deceased individuals in foreign countries, particularly regarding the repatriation process. Families often rely on the proper management of such sensitive matters when dealing with the loss of a loved one, making this case particularly distressing for the Graley family.

  • Limassol Derby Triggers High Security and Four Arrests

    Limassol Derby Triggers High Security and Four Arrests

    limassol derby — limassol derby — Limassol is under increased security surveillance as the derby between AEL and Apollon unfolds at the Alpha Mega Stadium. Police have deemed the match as “particularly difficult” and “high-risk” due to violent clashes that erupted shortly after midnight on Thursday outside an Apollon club in central Limassol.

    In light of the recent disturbances, over 300 police officers have been deployed to various strategic locations around the city to maintain order and ensure the event runs smoothly. An extensive operational plan is fully active, focusing on preventing any further incidents during the high-stakes match.

    Security measures have been notably stringent, with authorities conducting thorough checks at the stadium entrances from early afternoon. This heightened vigilance reflects the seriousness of the situation, as fans from both sides gather to show support for their teams.

    As the match commenced, police reported four arrests related to the pre-match unrest. One individual was detained for throwing a flare at officers during a march of Apollon fans towards the stadium. Another arrest was made for possessing a small amount of drugs during the entry checks. The remaining two arrests involved public insults and resisting arrest.

    Following the violent incidents outside the Apollon clubhouse, police had requested that the match be held behind closed doors to mitigate risks. However, the Cyprus Football Association (CFA) rejected this proposal, allowing the derby to proceed as planned.

    The atmosphere surrounding the game remains tense, with police on high alert to respond swiftly to any signs of trouble. Fans from both sides are hopeful that the clash will proceed without further incidents, eager to witness a thrilling match.

  • Young Runners Aim to Cross Cyprus in 24 Hours

    Young Runners Aim to Cross Cyprus in 24 Hours

    young runners — The young runners undertaking this ambitious challenge are set to make history with a 240-kilometre relay across Cyprus. Starting on December 21 at midnight from Ayios Kokonas church in Akamas, four university students aim to reach Cape Greco peninsula before the clock strikes midnight the following day.

    • As Christmas approaches, the team hopes to be adequately prepared, ready to take on this monumental task while inspiring others along the way.

    This first-of-its-kind event, dubbed ‘Running across Cyprus’, will see the team swapping runners every 20 kilometres. Team captain Anghelo George Eleftheriou, who describes himself as a ‘non-runner’, has spent the past year training rigorously to transform his fitness levels, preparing to run the entire distance alongside his teammates.

    Joining him are fellow students Panos Alepis, Constantinos Psaras, and Petros Loizou, all in their twenties, who have a mixture of athletic backgrounds. While Eleftheriou has struggled with running in the past, his teammates have consistently engaged in football. They invite the community to support them as they attempt to set a new record, equipped with live GPS tracking to share their progress.

    “We want to show people that it’s never too late to redefine what you’re capable of,” Eleftheriou stated. His words reflect the team’s mission: to inspire others to pursue their ambitions, no matter how daunting they may seem.

    The four runners have united not just for the physical challenge but also for personal growth. They believe that by pushing their limits, they encourage others to do the same. “You define yourself, you set your own limits,” they noted, highlighting the importance of goal-setting in their training.

    The challenge they face is significant, with each runner needing to complete three sets of 20 kilometres. Unlike any marathon they have experienced before, the relay poses unique challenges, particularly the lack of sleep which can hinder muscle recovery. Additionally, the December timing means they will have to navigate the route in darkness, relying on headlamps to guide their way.

    The atmosphere leading up to the event is charged with excitement and nerves. “All emotions are high,” the team shared, acknowledging the daunting nature of running for 24 hours straight. Eleftheriou emphasised the value of setting fears aside, stating, “If you don’t set a challenge that doesn’t at least scare you a little, then maybe the challenge isn’t hard enough.”

    To ensure their safety during the run, the team has arranged for a support vehicle, ready to provide medical assistance and supplies should the need arise. This careful planning reflects their commitment to both the challenge and their well-being.

    For the group, this relay represents more than just a record attempt. It embodies perseverance and a commitment to high performance. With countless hours of training leading up to this moment, they are eager to push their boundaries and embrace the journey ahead.

    Looking beyond this challenge, the team is already planning future adventures, including a run from Akamas to the Karpas peninsula. “Our goal is to motivate and show every goal can be reached, dream big,” Eleftheriou declared, showcasing their desire to keep pushing the envelope.

    As Christmas approaches, the team hopes to be adequately prepared, ready to take on this monumental task while inspiring others along the way.

  • Tragic Crash Claims Life of 17-Year-Old on Larnaca-Limassol Road

    Tragic Crash Claims Life of 17-Year-Old on Larnaca-Limassol Road

    larnaca-limassol road — A 17-year-old girl, Aliki Nicolaou from Lymbia, died on Saturday morning in a car crash on the road from Kofinou to the Limassol-Nicosia highway.

    • larnaca-limassol road — A 17-year-old girl, Aliki Nicolaou from Lymbia, died on Saturday morning in a car crash on the road from Kofinou to the Limassol-Nicosia highway.

    The collision, which occurred at around 2.30am, involved a vehicle carrying five individuals. According to police reports, as the car was entering the highway towards Nicosia, it veered off course, struck a safety barrier, and subsequently overturned.

    Emergency services were quick to respond, with police and firefighters attending the scene. Firefighters worked to free Aliki from the wreckage before she was transported by ambulance to Larnaca general hospital. Unfortunately, despite the efforts of medical staff, she was pronounced dead shortly after arrival.

    Among the four other passengers in the vehicle were three teenagers. Following treatment, a 17-year-old boy and a 17-year-old girl, along with the 22-year-old male driver, were discharged from the hospital. The 22-year-old driver, who was also involved in the crash, remains in hospital for further medical examinations.

    Initial tests conducted on the driver revealed a positive result for alcohol. However, during a follow-up test, he failed to provide a valid breath sample, leading to his arrest for a summary offence. Reports confirm that tests for drugs returned negative results.

    The Larnaca traffic department is actively investigating the circumstances surrounding the crash. Sources suggest that the driver may face additional charges related to this tragic incident, along with other possible traffic offences.

  • Drought — Drought Threatens Cyprus’ Ancient Forests, Officials Warn

    Drought — Drought Threatens Cyprus’ Ancient Forests, Officials Warn

    Drought has severely damaged Cyprus’ forests, with 40 per cent of the trees in the cedar valley having already dried up, according to forestry department director, Savvas Ezekiel. Addressing the crisis on CyBC radio, he described the situation as unprecedented, raising alarms about the island’s oldest forests.

    The forestry department’s assessments reveal that mature cedars and pines are succumbing after consecutive years of minimal rainfall. While young saplings can collapse within weeks without adequate water, larger trees, although initially more resilient, begin to weaken after several dry years.

    Implications of Continued Drought

    Ezekiel warned that if Cyprus endures another dry winter, “we will lose many centuries-old trees,” a fate that could extend to forests across the island. The current drought is notable, as it marks a severity not seen since 2008.

    Areas of Concern

    Significant losses have been documented in regions such as Kakomalis and Machairas, where species like the Turkish pine (Pinus brutia) and the endemic golden oak (Quercus alnifolia) are drying at alarming rates. In the Akamas region, Jerusalem pine trees (Pinus halepensis) are also showing signs of distress, particularly deeper within the forest, although the more humid coastal edges remain relatively unaffected.

    In contrast, the high-altitude black pine (Pinus nigra) in Troodos is stable for now, benefiting from cooler temperatures and moisture, while the forests of Cape Greco are holding up due to their coastal microclimate.

    Impact on Wildlife and Fire Risk

    The drought has repercussions beyond tree mortality. Ezekiel highlighted that natural springs have been adversely affected, leading to reduced river flows and diminishing water access for birds and other wildlife. This situation raises significant concerns regarding fire risk, as the accumulation of dry biomass across forested areas creates an environment ripe for wildfires. Ezekiel stated that with everything so dry, “there is nowhere for a fire to stop.”

    Mitigation Efforts and Community Support

    In an effort to manage the growing fire risk and support mountain communities, the forestry department plans to issue a circular next week that increases the annual firewood allowances. Families in high-altitude areas will see their quota rise from 10 to 12 cubic metres, while those in lower-altitude regions will increase from 4 to 5 cubic metres.

    Scientific Perspective on Tree Mortality

    Former Green Party leader, Charalambos Theopemptou, noted that the drying of olives, carobs, and pines aligns with scientific data indicating that repeated drought is a leading cause of mass tree mortality in ecosystems. The situation is further compounded by the comments from Water Development Department (WDD) official, Giorgos Kazantzis, who emphasised that Cyprus cannot easily replenish its natural water sources and must continue to depend on dams and desalination.

    Kazantzis also pointed out that the potential for artificial rain through cloud seeding technology remains limited in Cyprus due to challenges in directing clouds and the associated risks of hail or flooding.

  • Tragic Loss: Limassol Pedestrian Dies Weeks After Car Collision

    Tragic Loss: Limassol Pedestrian Dies Weeks After Car Collision

    limassol pedestrian — limassol pedestrian — A road collision in Limassol has claimed the life of a 66-year-old pedestrian, Androulla Sirivianou, who succumbed to her injuries today, weeks after the incident on 30 July 2025.

    • Limassol Traffic Police continue their investigations, seeking to understand the events leading up to the collision and ensure such incidents are prevented in the future.

    The tragic event unfolded when Sirivianou was struck by a car driven by a 30-year-old woman. Details surrounding the circumstances of the collision are still under investigation by Limassol Traffic Police.

    Following the collision, Sirivianou suffered serious injuries and was promptly transported to a private hospital in the city for treatment. Despite the medical attention she received, her condition worsened, leading to her passing.

    A post-mortem examination is scheduled to determine the exact cause of her death, which has left the local community in shock. Friends and family are mourning the loss of a beloved member of their community.

    Limassol Traffic Police continue their investigations, seeking to understand the events leading up to the collision and ensure such incidents are prevented in the future.

  • Norwegian woman — Autopsy Reveals No Trauma in Death of Norwegian Woman in Paralimni

    Norwegian woman — Autopsy Reveals No Trauma in Death of Norwegian Woman in Paralimni

    norwegian woman — The focus keyword in this tragic case is the Norwegian woman found dead in her Paralimni flat. Authorities are investigating the circumstances surrounding the death of a 49-year-old woman whose body was discovered on Thursday afternoon. Pathologists conducted a thorough autopsy and found no signs of physical trauma that could explain her untimely demise.

    Norwegian woman: Discovery of the Body

    Police were alerted to the situation at around 1.55pm on Thursday when a concerned relative reported that they had not heard from the woman. Upon arrival, officers accessed the first-floor apartment through a window and made the grim discovery.

    Pathologists’ Findings

    The lengthy post-mortem examination was carried out by pathologists Angeliki Papetta and Orthódoxos Orthodóxou at Nicosia General Hospital. They found no visible injuries or X-ray evidence that could account for her death. As the investigation continues, authorities are awaiting results from toxicology and other laboratory tests, which may provide additional insights.

    Health Concerns

    According to police statements, the deceased had been suffering from serious health problems prior to her death. These pre-existing conditions may play a crucial role in understanding the circumstances surrounding her passing.

    Continuing Investigation

    In the wake of this incident, police have collected evidence from the scene, which is now undergoing scientific analysis. They are also taking statements from family members to piece together a clearer picture of the events leading up to the woman’s death. While no scenarios have been ruled out yet, the investigation remains ongoing as authorities seek to determine the cause of her passing.