MVP

Tag: emergency services

  • Limassol Pedestrian Dies After Being Struck by Reversing Bus

    Limassol Pedestrian Dies After Being Struck by Reversing Bus

    limassol pedestrian — limassol pedestrian — A 65-year-old Romanian man has died from injuries sustained when a public bus reversed over him in Limassol on 4 September. Doru-Gheorghe Spataceanu succumbed to his injuries yesterday afternoon after 10 days of treatment in intensive care at a private hospital, where he had been intubated.

    The tragic incident took place on Leontiou Street, close to the city’s Central Police Station. According to reports, the bus, operated by EMEL, was travelling northbound and had stopped at a bus stop outside a technical school. The driver attempted to reverse due to a parked vehicle obstructing the way ahead.

    In a moment of misfortune, the bus struck Spataceanu, who was standing behind it at the time. He suffered serious injuries, including broken ribs and damage to vital organs, which necessitated immediate ambulance transport to the hospital.

    Despite the medical team’s efforts, Spataceanu’s condition remained critical, and he was placed on a ventilator in the intensive care unit. Unfortunately, after a lengthy battle for recovery, he passed away on 14 September, leaving the community to mourn.

    Limassol Traffic Police have launched an investigation into the circumstances surrounding the accident. Authorities are working to determine the exact cause of the collision and whether any safety protocols were violated during the incident.

  • Paphos School Bus Fire Averted Before Student Pickup

    Paphos School Bus Fire Averted Before Student Pickup

    paphos school — paphos school — A school bus operated by the Paphos Public Transport Organisation (OSYPA) caught fire at around 07:00 on Tuesday on Archbishop Makarios Avenue in Chlorakas, with no students on board. Thankfully, tragedy was averted as the bus was empty at the time of the incident.

    • As authorities continue their investigations, the focus will remain on ensuring the safety and reliability of student transport services in the region.

    The driver noticed smoke emanating from the bus and quickly evacuated the vehicle. In an attempt to manage the situation, he tried to extinguish the fire himself but was unsuccessful. Emergency services arrived shortly after, ensuring that no injuries were reported.

    Paphos school: Recent Technical Inspection Raises Questions

    This particular bus was among the newer models in OSYPA’s fleet. Andreas Nikiforou, Head of Public Passenger Transport and Senior Road Transport Officer, confirmed that the bus had passed its technical inspection on 27 August 2025, just three weeks prior to the fire. “Everything was in order with the bus. There is certification for the fire suppression system; everything was perfect,” Nikiforou stated, calling the incident “terribly unfortunate.”

    Inspection Protocols Under Scrutiny

    An electromechanical service team from Nicosia is set to conduct a thorough inspection of the bus to pinpoint the cause of the fire. The provincial electromechanical service department has already completed an initial examination to identify where the blaze originated. Authorities are considering various potential causes, including mechanical failure or electrical issues.

    Interestingly, this is not the first fire incident involving a student transport bus in the region. Nikiforou mentioned that inspections have intensified over the past two years, with transport companies now required to provide MOT certificates, technical inspections from private garages, and documentation of inspections undertaken within the last three months.

    Ageing Fleet and Future Plans

    The Transport Ministry representatives confirmed that the bus, manufactured in 2010, met contractual requirements for vehicles under 20 years old, with an average fleet age not exceeding 10 years. Parliamentary Education Committee deputy chairman Chrysanthos Savvides noted that 50 new buses are expected for delivery in February to help modernise the ageing fleet. “We must give all our attention to existing buses to avoid any unpleasant developments,” Savvides said, highlighting the ongoing challenge faced by the transport sector.

    As authorities continue their investigations, the focus will remain on ensuring the safety and reliability of student transport services in the region.

  • September Tornado Strikes Anthoupoli, Nicosia Without Damage

    September Tornado Strikes Anthoupoli, Nicosia Without Damage

    A tornado struck Nicosia, near Anthoupoli towards Agioi Trimithias on Tuesday afternoon, surprising local residents with its sudden appearance.

    • A tornado struck Nicosia, near Anthoupoli towards Agioi Trimithias on Tuesday afternoon, surprising local residents with its sudden appearance.

    The tornado, described as rare for this time of year, lasted for several minutes before dissipating. Initial reports suggest that the phenomenon did not cause any damages or injuries, allowing the community to breathe a sigh of relief.

    Witnesses reported seeing dark clouds forming quickly and the winds picking up intensity, leading to the brief tornado. Local authorities have confirmed that they are monitoring the weather patterns for any further developments.

    Residents in the area were understandably unsettled by the event, as tornadoes are not common in Cyprus, particularly in September. Many took to social media to share their experiences and capture the moment on video, creating a buzz across various platforms.

    Despite the tornado’s intensity, the absence of property damage or injuries has been a fortunate outcome. Local officials have expressed gratitude that the weather event did not escalate further, which could have posed a risk to the community.

  • Limassol Fire Response Highlights Gaps in Police Investigation Skills

    Limassol Fire Response Highlights Gaps in Police Investigation Skills

    The Limassol fire has prompted police to confront their lack of fire investigation expertise, revealing serious operational shortcomings in their emergency response. Deputy Police Chief Panikos Stavrou admitted to parliament that the investigators currently lack the specialised knowledge necessary for thorough fire investigation procedures.

    This significant gap in expertise has surfaced during a review of the police’s response to the deadly blaze, which exposed multiple operational failures that hindered effective management at the scene. Stavrou stated that while officers processed 13 pieces of information regarding the wildfire, they could not substantiate any arson suspicions against individuals, as no relevant testimonies had been obtained.

    Limassol fire: Operational Failures Unveiled

    The review unveiled numerous operational oversights during the emergency response. One critical issue highlighted was the entrance of unauthorised personnel into the Mobile Command Station, which complicated the efforts of those tasked with managing the situation. “The presence of unauthorised persons at the station complicates the work of responsible personnel,” Stavrou remarked, indicating that stricter protocols are essential.

    Additionally, the police acknowledged deficiencies in their media management protocols. They concluded that journalists should be positioned away from coordination centres and command stations to ensure that essential operations are not disrupted. This approach aims to streamline communication and enhance the effectiveness of the emergency response.

    Communications and Medical Support Issues

    Another pressing concern was the disruption of internet services due to damage sustained by various provider antennas during the fire. The police have recommended the installation of permanent satellite internet servers at the Mobile Command Station to ensure reliable communication in future emergencies.

    Perhaps most alarming was the absence of ambulances at the fire scene, despite numerous emergency calls for first aid and medical assistance. Officials have stressed that having ambulances present at crisis sites is vital, particularly in situations where rapid medical intervention is required.

    The Limassol police also faced challenges in providing essential social services. When citizens sought emergency accommodation, they found that contact information for relevant social welfare services was unavailable. While representatives from HOPE FOR CHILDREN were on-site to assist at the Crisis Management Centre, it was determined that these services would operate more effectively from separate spaces to improve communication with the public.

    Need for Enhanced Training

    The findings from the review have underscored the urgent necessity for joint training programmes between police and fire service personnel engaged in fire investigations. Acknowledging that current investigators lack the requisite specialised knowledge for effective examinations of fire scenes, Stavrou called for immediate action to address these training deficiencies.

    The Limassol fire serves as a stark reminder of the critical importance of specialised training and operational protocols in emergency response situations. As authorities continue to investigate other complaints related to additional fires across Cyprus, the emphasis on improving skills and procedures remains paramount.

  • Fire Brigade Rescues Man After Fall from Two Storeys

    Fire Brigade Rescues Man After Fall from Two Storeys

    two storeys — An injured man who fell from a two-storey building in Aradippou was rescued by the fire brigade on Tuesday afternoon.

    • two storeys — An injured man who fell from a two-storey building in Aradippou was rescued by the fire brigade on Tuesday afternoon.
    • The local fire brigade has not released further details about the man's condition following the incident, and investigations into the circumstances surrounding the fall are ongoing.

    At 1.02 PM, emergency services received a call regarding an incident involving a man attempting to climb into a room of the building using a ladder. Unfortunately, during his attempt, he lost his footing and fell, resulting in injuries.

    The fire brigade promptly dispatched a vehicle and a team to the scene. Upon arrival, they found the man in need of immediate assistance. Rescuers worked swiftly to secure him to a stretcher before transporting him to Larnaca General Hospital’s Accident and Emergency department for treatment.

    The local fire brigade has not released further details about the man’s condition following the incident, and investigations into the circumstances surrounding the fall are ongoing.

  • Paragliding accident — Paragliding accident: Autopsy Confirms Cause of Death in Kiti Paragliding Tragedy

    Paragliding accident — Paragliding accident: Autopsy Confirms Cause of Death in Kiti Paragliding Tragedy

    paragliding accident — The paragliding accident that claimed the life of 31-year-old Antonis Kourras on Thursday morning in Kiti has been confirmed to be caused by multiple injuries, as revealed by an autopsy conducted the following day.

    • The autopsy was performed by forensic pathologists Angeliki Papetta and Orthodoxos Orthodoxou at Nicosia General Hospital, confirming the severity of the injuries sustained.

    Kourras, a resident of Anayia in Nicosia, tragically lost control of his motorised paraglider while flying at a low altitude above the sea in the Parasolia area. He crashed onto rocks near the shoreline, and despite the prompt arrival of ambulance crews, he was pronounced dead at the scene.

    The autopsy was performed by forensic pathologists Angeliki Papetta and Orthodoxos Orthodoxou at Nicosia General Hospital, confirming the severity of the injuries sustained.

    Authorities have since initiated parallel investigations into the circumstances surrounding the accident. Officers from Kiti police station and members of the Aircraft Accident and Incident Investigation Board (AAIIB) are actively involved in the inquiries.

    Chairman of the AAIIB, Antonis Antoniou, stated that a preliminary inspection of the glider has been conducted. He noted that the cause of the accident could potentially stem from either a malfunction of the machine or the adverse weather conditions, particularly the strong winds reported in the area at the time.

    “There may or may not have been a problem with the machine, or the accident could have been linked to the strong winds in the area at the time,” Antoniou explained. “It is also possible there was another factor, which we are trying to identify.” He cautioned that the investigation will require time to thoroughly examine various parameters and gather information from witnesses.

    In light of the rising popularity of paragliding and paramotoring, Antoniou emphasised the importance of adhering to safety regulations. “Essentially, the pilot relies on the wind, and if something goes wrong, an accident can easily happen. In recent years, interest in the sport has rocketed, which makes it all the more important that they follow regulations – using approved areas, undergoing proper training, checking their equipment, and being mindful of weather conditions.”

    Additionally, police spokesman Spyros Chrysostomou mentioned that investigators will be interviewing the individual who was flying alongside Kourras at the time of the incident to gather more insights into the circumstances of the tragic event.

  • Tragic Accident: Man Dies After Losing Control of Paramotor Glider in Larnaca

    Tragic Accident: Man Dies After Losing Control of Paramotor Glider in Larnaca

    A 31-year-old man died on Thursday after losing control of his paramotor glider over Kiti, Larnaca. The individual has been identified as Antonis Kourras from the village of Anayia in Nicosia.

    • A 31-year-old man died on Thursday after losing control of his paramotor glider over Kiti, Larnaca. The individual has been identified as Antonis Kourras from the village of Anayia in Nicosia.
    • Authorities are continuing their inquiries to determine the factors that led to this tragic accident, which has left the local community in shock.

    At approximately 8.30am, Kourras was paragliding with a companion in the Parasolia area of Kiti when he encountered difficulties while flying at a low altitude. Witnesses reported that the glider suddenly lost control and plummeted towards the sea, crashing into rocks near the beach.

    Emergency services were alerted immediately. An ambulance arrived on the scene, and Kourras was transported to Larnaca General Hospital. Despite the efforts of medical personnel, he was pronounced dead upon arrival.

    The police have initiated an investigation into the circumstances surrounding the incident. Members of the air accident investigation committee were also dispatched to ascertain the cause of the fall.

    In a coordinated response, the Joint Rescue Coordination Centre (JRCC) activated the ‘Nearchos’ search and rescue national plan shortly after receiving reports of an individual in danger at 9.05am. Search and rescue operations were conducted along the Mazotos coast.

    Authorities are continuing their inquiries to determine the factors that led to this tragic accident, which has left the local community in shock.

  • Limassol Factory Fire Leads to Arrest of Former Employee

    Limassol Factory Fire Leads to Arrest of Former Employee

    limassol factory — limassol factory — A major factory fire in Ypsonas, Limassol, has resulted in the arrest of a 43-year-old former employee, following a night of evacuations and explosions that gripped the local community.

    The fire erupted at a paper storage and processing facility shortly before 2:00 am local time, prompting immediate action from emergency services. As flames rapidly engulfed the building, residents in the vicinity were forced to evacuate for their safety.

    Two nearby homes suffered damage to their external areas due to the intensity of the blaze. Witness accounts reveal a harrowing scene, with one local describing a series of loud explosions around 2:20 am. “The explosions were very loud, and shortly after we saw the factory engulfed in flames,” the resident said.

    Firefighting crews were dispatched promptly, with a total of ten fire engines responding under the guidance of the Fire Service. “We responded immediately from Limassol stations, reinforced by EMAK and a vehicle from the British Bases,” said Fire Service spokesman Andreas Kettis.

    Upon arrival, firefighters encountered a full-blown fire, exacerbated by the combustible materials stored on-site. “The thermal load was enormous. It was impossible to enter inside the factory,” Kettis explained. Instead, crews concentrated on external suppression and safeguarding adjacent residential properties.

    Compounding the crisis, the presence of gas canisters within the factory premises led to continuous explosions. “There were continuous explosions, with these gas canisters being catapulted. The firefighters were in danger,” Kettis added. The Fire Service had not been informed of the gas canisters, as the factory was registered solely for paper storage, raising concerns about safety compliance.

    By early morning, the fire was under control, though investigations are ongoing to determine its cause. The police arrested the former employee after the factory owner expressed suspicions regarding the fire and implicated him in a statement.

    Meanwhile, the Limassol-Paphos motorway was temporarily closed as a precaution, with police concerned about the safety of motorists due to the fire and associated explosions. The road has since reopened, but the section adjacent to the factory remains closed while the scene is secured.

    As the local community processes the events of that chaotic night, many residents remain shaken. “There is a strong smell of burning in the air and a stinging sensation in our eyes from the smoke,” shared one local, reflecting the health risks posed by the fire. The incident has sparked discussions about safety measures in such industrial facilities, highlighting the need for stricter compliance to prevent future occurrences.

  • Four People Rescued from Cape Greco Sea Caves After Recent Incidents

    Four People Rescued from Cape Greco Sea Caves After Recent Incidents

    Four people were rescued after falling from the sea caves at Cape Greco, highlighting the dangers of this popular yet hazardous location. The rescue took place on Sunday evening, marking the second incident at the site within just three days.

    • Just two days prior, on Friday afternoon, another incident was reported involving a woman who also fell from the sea caves. This series of accidents has raised concerns about safety at Cape Greco.

    The Joint Rescue Coordination Centre (JRCC) reported that the incident occurred around 5:50pm. Emergency services, including an ambulance, fire brigade personnel, a police patrol, a maritime police vessel, and a helicopter, were called to assist in the rescue operation.

    Among the four individuals rescued, one person sustained injuries and was promptly transported to Famagusta General Hospital for further treatment. The JRCC’s swift action ensured that all involved received immediate care.

    Just two days prior, on Friday afternoon, another incident was reported involving a woman who also fell from the sea caves. This series of accidents has raised concerns about safety at Cape Greco.

    The JRCC has reiterated warnings to the public regarding the risks associated with the sea caves, which are known for their increasing soil erosion. Diving and entering these caves remain strictly prohibited, yet their allure continues to attract visitors.

    As authorities work to ensure public safety, it is crucial for visitors to heed warnings and avoid dangerous areas. The recent rescues serve as a stark reminder of the risks posed by Cape Greco’s natural beauty.

  • Ayia Napa Waterpark Reopens After False Alarm Over Suspicious Item

    Ayia Napa Waterpark Reopens After False Alarm Over Suspicious Item

    Visitors To The Ayia Napa Waterpark Can

    Visitors to the Ayia Napa waterpark can return after a report of a suspicious item led to a significant police operation. The investigation confirmed that the alert was a false alarm, allowing the venue to reopen promptly.

    • Authorities responded swiftly to the call, mobilising bomb disposal experts and other police units. Guests were evacuated as a precaution while officials conducted a thorough search of the premises.

    Authorities responded swiftly to the call, mobilising bomb disposal experts and other police units. Guests were evacuated as a precaution while officials conducted a thorough search of the premises.

    Authorities Responded Swiftly To The Call, Mobilising

    After an exhaustive examination, the police determined that there was no explosive device at the site. The swift action taken by law enforcement ensured the safety of everyone present, although the incident caused temporary disruption.

    This false alarm comes just weeks after another concerning discovery at the waterpark, where a grenade was found. The previous incident raised alarms about safety, making the recent report particularly alarming for both visitors and staff.

    With the investigation concluded and all clear given, the waterpark is eager to welcome back guests. Officials are keen to reassure the public that safety measures are in place to prevent future incidents and maintain a secure environment for all visitors.