MVP

Category: News

  • Traumatic brain — Larnaca Teen Dies from Traumatic Brain Injury After Car Park Incident

    Traumatic brain — Larnaca Teen Dies from Traumatic Brain Injury After Car Park Incident

    traumatic brain — Christos Christaki, a 19-year-old from Larnaca, tragically died on Saturday night due to a traumatic brain injury sustained after being run over in a car park earlier in the week. An autopsy conducted on Monday confirmed the cause of death.

    The incident occurred last Monday night when Christaki was struck by a car driven by another 19-year-old, who is believed to have been a friend. A third teen was in the passenger seat at the time of the accident.

    Initially, Christaki was taken to Larnaca General Hospital where he was intubated. Due to the severity of his injuries, he was later transferred to Nicosia General Hospital and subsequently moved to the American Medical Centre, where he succumbed to his injuries.

    Authorities have confirmed that a breathalyser test administered to the driver returned negative results. In the wake of the incident, police conducted a reconstruction of what happened and reviewed available CCTV footage. Unfortunately, it was discovered that the area of the car park where the accident took place was not covered by any cameras.

    Investigators have been actively seeking statements from witnesses present during the incident, and they continue to look for additional individuals who may provide further insight into the circumstances surrounding the event. Reports suggest that the three teens were part of a larger group celebrating the end of their military service at the time of the accident.

  • Cigarettes: Significant Cigarette Seizures at Checkpoints Highlight Ongoing Smuggling Issues

    Cigarettes: Significant Cigarette Seizures at Checkpoints Highlight Ongoing Smuggling Issues

    Large quantities of cigarettes were confiscated at checkpoints as authorities continue to tackle smuggling operations. Three separate incidents reported by police on Monday revealed the extent of unregulated tobacco products being transported through Ayios Dometios and Famagusta.

    Cigarettes: Multiple Incidents Uncovered

    During a routine inspection on Saturday, customs officers investigated a vehicle driven by a Greek Cypriot man known for previous smuggling activities. The search resulted in the discovery of 50 packs of 20 heated cigarettes and 750g of rolling tobacco, all of which were promptly seized.

    The man was arrested and, upon giving his written consent, officers conducted a search of his residence. This led to the seizure of an additional 28 boxes of 200 cigarettes each, two boxes of 200 heated cigarettes, and another 500g of rolling tobacco. He was subsequently fined €3,500 for the offences.

    A Day of High Seizures in Famagusta

    On the preceding day, Famagusta police stopped a vehicle driven by a 58-year-old man who was carrying a substantial amount of cigarettes. Authorities confiscated 57 boxes of 200 cigarettes, three packs of 20 cigarettes, and rolling tobacco weighing a total of 2.64kg. After agreeing to an out-of-court settlement, the driver was released, having paid a fine of €5,000.

    Checkpoint Scrutiny Leads to Arrest

    In yet another incident, a taxi driven by a Turkish Cypriot, carrying an Israeli passenger, was inspected at the Ayios Dometios checkpoint. The inspection uncovered 67 boxes of 200 cigarettes each and four packs of 20 cigarettes each. The passenger was arrested, and the seized products were taken into custody.

    Following a one-day remand order issued by the Nicosia district court, the passenger was eventually fined €8,000, with the court considering his prior involvement in other offences when determining the penalty. The seized tobacco products were destroyed as part of the settlement.

  • Concerns Mount Over LNG Project Viability at Vasiliko

    Concerns Mount Over LNG Project Viability at Vasiliko

    The future of the LNG project at Vasiliko is in jeopardy as design flaws and structural issues have raised serious concerns, potentially leading to its cancellation.

    • The future of the LNG project at Vasiliko is in jeopardy as design flaws and structural issues have raised serious concerns, potentially leading to its cancellation.

    Reports surfaced on Monday revealing that the project may have to be scrapped or completely redesigned due to unsafe materials and significant technical problems. This news follows a report from television channel Omega, which highlighted ongoing “design and materials issues” that have halted progress.

    A source quoted by Omega stated, “There are very serious technical issues, which make it impossible to continue the work at this time. That is why the work on the pier has been at a standstill for months, and no timetable has been given by the authorities for the completion of the work.” This lack of clarity has left stakeholders in limbo.

    In response to the unfolding situation, Energy Minister George Papanastasiou acknowledged the government’s efforts at “damage limitation.” To date, the troubled LNG project has cost taxpayers approximately €320 million, with an additional €70 million requested by the government in March.

    Adding to the concerns, a former director at the Transmission System Operator (TSO), Christos Christodoulides, confirmed the reported deficiencies. He disclosed that the sub-contractor responsible for constructing the jetty at Vasiliko has declined to accept responsibility for the materials and infrastructure, which reportedly require extensive repairs or even remanufacturing.

    Christodoulides raised questions about how the government would attract new bidders to take over the project under these circumstances. Furthermore, he indicated that the project manager might consider rebuilding certain infrastructures at Vasiliko due to the lack of certification for critical equipment and materials already in use.

    Sources have suggested that some components ordered by the previous Chinese-led consortium lacked safety certifications. This includes high-pressure valves essential for safe operations. Such revelations have led many to speculate about the integrity of the entire project.

    In light of these challenges, Christodoulides proposed an alternative strategy: piping natural gas from the offshore Aphrodite reservoir. This plan would involve constructing a pipeline from the reservoir to the existing infrastructures at Vasiliko, allowing for a more immediate and reliable supply of natural gas for electricity generation.

    Such a solution could meet the island’s energy needs with only approximately 0.6 billion cubic metres of natural gas per year, providing a feasible ‘Plan B’ while the LNG project remains uncertain. However, pursuing this option would require the government to renegotiate the development plan with the Aphrodite concession holders.

    Even before the Omega report, Minister Papanastasiou hinted at the need for a potential “course correction” regarding the LNG project. Initially awarded in 2019 with a 24-month deadline for completion, the project has seen multiple missed deadlines from the Chinese-led consortium, which ultimately terminated the contract in July 2023, citing irreconcilable differences with the Cyprus government.

    The floating, storage and re-gasification unit (Fsru), a critical component of the LNG project, remains stuck in a Malaysian port for fitting, illustrating the severe delays and complications that have plagued this initiative.

  • Head injuries — Severe Head Injuries Claim Life of National Guardsman Christos Christaki

    Head injuries — Severe Head Injuries Claim Life of National Guardsman Christos Christaki

    head injuries — Severe head injuries have been confirmed as the cause of death for 19-year-old National Guardsman Christos Christaki, who succumbed on Saturday evening following a tragic fall from a car on 18th August.

    • The community mourns the loss of a young life filled with promise, as friends and family grapple with the profound impact of this tragic event.

    The autopsy, conducted at Nicosia Hospital mortuary, revealed that the young man’s injuries were the result of a fall that occurred late on Monday night in a car park behind the entertainment venues at Mackenzie. Friends had gathered in the area after dining at a nearby restaurant.

    Witnesses reported that Christos was lying on the front bonnet of a friend’s moving vehicle when he fell, leading to severe trauma. Following his injuries, he was initially taken to Larnaca General Hospital before being transferred to Nicosia General Hospital due to the critical nature of his condition.

    Tragically, after being admitted to intensive care, Christos passed away shortly after 6pm on Saturday at the American Medical Center. The post-mortem was conducted by Dr Angeliki Papetta, head of forensic medicine, alongside forensic pathologist Dr Orthodoxos Orthodoxou, who confirmed the nature of his injuries.

    The incident led to immediate police action, resulting in the arrest of a 19-year-old friend of Christos for causing grievous bodily harm and negligent and reckless acts. Although initially treated as a traffic accident, further investigation prompted authorities to take this step. The friend has since been released without charge while investigations by the Larnaca Criminal Investigation Department continue, with the case file set to be forwarded to the Law Office for potential prosecution.

    In a show of solidarity, the Aradippou Municipality announced the cancellation of a scheduled festival at St Fanourios Church courtyard, expressing deep sorrow over the loss of Christos. His funeral is set for Tuesday afternoon at 4:30pm at the Church of Apostle Luke, where the family has requested attendees wear white clothing instead of offering condolences or wreaths, encouraging donations to support the family instead.

    The community mourns the loss of a young life filled with promise, as friends and family grapple with the profound impact of this tragic event.

  • Protaras assault: Teens Remanded Following Violent Assault in Protaras

    Protaras assault: Teens Remanded Following Violent Assault in Protaras

    protaras assault — Two teenagers, aged 17 and 19, have been remanded by the Famagusta district court for a week as part of an ongoing investigation into a serious assault in Protaras.

    • protaras assault — Two teenagers, aged 17 and 19, have been remanded by the Famagusta district court for a week as part of an ongoing investigation into a serious assault in Protaras.
    • The suspects were apprehended late on Sunday night, around 11:45 pm, following an incident that left a 31-year-old man injured.
    • The assault resulted in significant injuries to the victim, including a fractured orbital bone and lacerations to the face. He was treated at Famagusta General Hospital and has since been discharged.
    • Authorities continue to investigate the circumstances surrounding the attack, with both suspects currently in custody awaiting further legal proceedings.

    The suspects were apprehended late on Sunday night, around 11:45 pm, following an incident that left a 31-year-old man injured.

    According to police reports, the assault took place on Thursday, August 21, at approximately 5:30 pm. The victim, who was working at a facility in the Protaras area, was allegedly attacked by one of the suspects who struck him in the face. It is also claimed that a knuckle duster was used during this violent confrontation.

    The assault resulted in significant injuries to the victim, including a fractured orbital bone and lacerations to the face. He was treated at Famagusta General Hospital and has since been discharged.

    Authorities continue to investigate the circumstances surrounding the attack, with both suspects currently in custody awaiting further legal proceedings.

  • Phishing emails — EAC Issues Alert on Phishing Emails About Unpaid Electricity Bills

    Phishing emails — EAC Issues Alert on Phishing Emails About Unpaid Electricity Bills

    The electricity authority of Cyprus (EAC) has issued a warning to consumers about phishing emails falsely claiming that their electricity bills remain unpaid. These deceptive communications have been reported recently and are designed to mislead customers into thinking they owe money and must act immediately.

    Understanding the Phishing Threat

    The EAC stated that the emails, which bear the subject line “Urgent Warning: Unpaid Electricity Bill”, typically encourage recipients to click on a link that leads to a payment portal. However, this link does not originate from the EAC and is instead a trap set by cybercriminals to harvest personal and financial information.

    Recent Incidents Highlight the Risk

    In an official statement to the Cyprus News Agency, the EAC confirmed that it has seen a rise in reports from consumers receiving these fraudulent emails. The authority emphasised that these messages are part of a broader trend of phishing attacks targeting individuals and organisations alike.

    How to Identify Phishing Emails

    Phishing emails often exhibit certain characteristics that can help recipients recognise them as fraudulent. The EAC recommends looking for:

    • Generic Greetings: Phishing emails often use non-specific salutations like ‘Dear Customer’ instead of personalising the message.
    • Urgency: Many phishing attempts create a false sense of urgency, prompting recipients to act quickly without thinking.
    • Unusual Attachments or Links: Legitimate organisations rarely send unsolicited emails with attachments or links. Hover over links to see the actual URL before clicking.
    • Strange Email Addresses: Check the sender’s email address for discrepancies; often, phishing emails come from addresses that do not match official domains.

    By staying vigilant and recognising these signs, consumers can better protect themselves from falling victim to such scams.

    What to Do If You Receive a Suspicious Email

    For anyone receiving an email that appears to be from the EAC or any other organisation, the first step is to verify its authenticity. The EAC advises consumers to:

    • Do Not Click: Avoid clicking on any links or downloading attachments until the email’s legitimacy is confirmed.
    • Contact the EAC Directly: Reach out to the EAC using official contact details found on their website to confirm whether they sent the email.
    • Report the Email: If the email is confirmed to be a phishing attempt, report it to the relevant authorities or the EAC directly so they can take appropriate action.

    Taking these precautionary steps can help prevent personal data from being compromised.

    Broader Implications of Phishing Scams

    Phishing scams are increasingly common in today’s digital environment, affecting not just individuals but also businesses and public services. These attacks can lead to significant financial loss and damage to reputation. The EAC’s warning serves as a reminder of the importance of cybersecurity awareness and the need for ongoing education regarding online threats.

    Protecting Yourself Online

    Consumers are encouraged to adopt good online practices to safeguard their personal information. Some effective strategies include:

    • Use Strong Passwords: Employ unique and complex passwords for different accounts and consider using a password manager.
    • Enable Two-Factor Authentication: This adds an extra layer of security by requiring a second form of verification when logging in.
    • Regularly Monitor Accounts: Keep an eye on bank statements and online accounts for any unusual activity.

    By implementing these measures, individuals can significantly reduce their risk of falling victim to phishing and other online scams.

    Continuing Education and Awareness

    The EAC continues to prioritise consumer awareness around such threats through various educational initiatives. They aim to inform the public about recognising phishing attempts and understanding the importance of cybersecurity.

    As cyber threats evolve, remaining informed and cautious is essential for all consumers. The EAC encourages everyone to stay alert and take proactive steps to protect their personal information.

  • Cyprus Suspends Parcel Post to the US Amid Taxation Changes

    Cyprus Suspends Parcel Post to the US Amid Taxation Changes

    parcel post — Cyprus has announced a halt on parcel post to the US, affecting all shipments containing goods. This suspension was confirmed by the postal services on Monday, citing new taxation regulations from the United States.

    • For now, Cypriots aiming to send packages to the US will need to seek alternative methods or wait for the resumption of services.

    Effective from August 29, the US will implement changes regarding the taxation of incoming parcels. In light of these adjustments, Cyprus has decided to temporarily cease the acceptance of all items for postal services, including EMS, parcels, letter mail, and QuickPost.

    The postal services have assured the public that letters and documents will still be processed as usual, allowing for continued communication despite the suspension of goods shipments. However, the suspension will remain in effect until the necessary procedures are clarified and a cooperative agreement is established with airlines.

    The announcement has prompted questions among residents and businesses that rely on parcel services to send goods to the US. As the situation evolves, the postal services are expected to provide updates on when normal operations will resume.

    For now, Cypriots aiming to send packages to the US will need to seek alternative methods or wait for the resumption of services.

  • Nicosia man — Nicosia Man Arrested After Pistol Found in Vehicle

    Nicosia man — Nicosia Man Arrested After Pistol Found in Vehicle

    nicosia man — A 50-year-old man was arrested in Nicosia on Saturday night after police discovered a pistol in his car.

    • nicosia man — A 50-year-old man was arrested in Nicosia on Saturday night after police discovered a pistol in his car.

    Authorities reported that the arrest took place during a routine check, leading to the immediate discovery of the firearm. Additionally, a bullet was found at a separate location linked to the suspect.

    The events unfolded as police were conducting surveillance. Upon approaching the man’s vehicle, officers noticed suspicious behaviour which prompted them to search the car. The presence of the pistol raised serious concerns and led to the man’s swift apprehension.

    This incident has drawn attention to ongoing safety and security measures in the area, with local authorities reaffirming their commitment to public safety. “We take these matters seriously and will continue to act decisively against any threats to our community,” a police spokesperson stated.

    The suspect is set to appear before the Nicosia District Court today, where officials will seek a remand order. This process is standard procedure in cases involving firearms to ensure that a thorough investigation can take place.

    Residents in the area expressed relief at the swift action taken by law enforcement. Many underscored the importance of vigilance in maintaining safety, particularly regarding illegal firearms. “It’s reassuring to know that the police are on top of things,” one local commented.

    As investigations continue, more details about the man’s background and the circumstances surrounding the discovery of the pistol may emerge. Authorities are likely to delve deeper into any potential connections he may have had with criminal activity.

    This incident serves as a reminder of the ongoing challenges faced by law enforcement in curbing illegal firearms and ensuring community safety. The presence of a firearm in public spaces remains a serious concern for many residents.

  • Limassol — 17-Year-Old Arrested in Limassol for Drug and Money Laundering Crimes

    Limassol — 17-Year-Old Arrested in Limassol for Drug and Money Laundering Crimes

    A 17-year-old boy has been arrested in Limassol on drug and money laundering charges, following a police investigation that unearthed cannabis possession and trafficking.

    • A 17-year-old boy has been arrested in Limassol on drug and money laundering charges, following a police investigation that unearthed cannabis possession and trafficking.

    On Saturday afternoon, officers discovered two nylon bags containing approximately 105 grammes of cannabis in a parking lot in Limassol. This discovery prompted further investigation, leading the police to the adolescent who was located nearby.

    According to the police, the teenager was apprehended based on a court warrant. During the arrest, a significant sum of money was also found and seized, indicating potential involvement in money laundering activities.

    The minor is expected to appear before the Limassol district court today, where a remand order will be sought. Limassol police continue to investigate the circumstances surrounding this case, focusing on the broader implications of drug trafficking in the area.

  • Genocide palestine: Larnaca Protesters Call for an End to Genocide in Palestine

    Genocide palestine: Larnaca Protesters Call for an End to Genocide in Palestine

    genocide palestine — genocide palestine — Protesters in Larnaca gathered to demand an end to genocide in Palestine, expressing their solidarity with the Palestinian people. Organised by the group “FREE FREE PALESTINE,” the demonstration took place at Finikoudes beach, where participants waved Palestinian flags and carried banners advocating for urgent action.

    Photo: in-cyprus.philenews.com

    A notable sign read, “Stop the genocide in Palestine,” while another starkly stated, “A child is burned every minute, and the world is silent.” The event attracted a diverse crowd, including families with children, all united in their message against the ongoing violence.

    Photo: in-cyprus.philenews.com

    Genocide palestine: A March for Unity and Awareness

    The protest commenced at Europe Square on Athens Avenue in Larnaca. Participants gathered for speeches before marching along the avenue, culminating at Saint Lazarus Church. The entire event was scheduled to last approximately an hour and a half, allowing ample time for participants to voice their concerns.

    Police Presence and Regulations

    The demonstration saw a significant police presence, with officers on-site to ensure the event remained peaceful and to facilitate public order. In a statement, the Police noted their commitment to overseeing the gathering in accordance with the Public Gatherings and Parades Law 151(I) of 2025, which mandates that organisers cooperate with law enforcement to maintain peace.

    Attendees were urged to comply with police instructions, as the law empowers the Police to impose restrictions or disperse gatherings that threaten to become non-peaceful. This includes instances where individuals may conceal their identity or actions may risk public safety.

    Voicing Concerns for Palestine

    The protesters carried powerful messages aimed at raising awareness about the humanitarian crisis in Palestine. Each banner and chant echoed their urgent plea for global recognition and intervention, reflecting a growing frustration over perceived international inaction.

    As the crowd marched, the atmosphere was charged with emotion, highlighting the deep connections many participants felt towards the plight of Palestinians. The event emphasised not just the call for an end to violence but also a plea for solidarity and justice.