MVP

Blog

  • 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.

  • Cyprus Weather Whims Bring Hail and Tornado to the Island

    Cyprus Weather Whims Bring Hail and Tornado to the Island

    cyprus weather — Cyprus weather whims have recently led to surprising meteorological events, including hailstorms in Limassol and a tornado in Avgorou. Just last Friday, the idea of hurricanes and hailstones the size of halloumi was playfully suggested, and shortly after, the island experienced these wild weather phenomena.

    Photo: cyprus-mail.com

    Cyprus weather: Unexpected Hail in Limassol

    The hail that fell across Limassol was significant enough to create a white landscape, catching many residents off guard. Reports indicate that the hailstones were quite large, with anything above 2 cm categorised as ‘large hail’. This isn’t the first time large hail has impacted the region; similar events occurred in October 2020 and August 2019, when hailstones of comparable sizes caused visibility issues and crop damage.

    The Impact on Agriculture

    While such weather may seem like a curiosity, it poses real threats to Cyprus’ agricultural sector. Potatoes, a vital export crop, particularly from the ‘red soil’ regions, could face severe damage from hail. As the island’s economy relies heavily on tourism, which accounts for approximately 15-20 per cent of the GDP, the agricultural impact can reverberate throughout the economy. The loss of crops due to unpredictable weather patterns underscores the fragility of the island’s economy.

    Weather Comparisons and Historical Context

    Despite the unusual nature of recent weather events in Cyprus, they pale in comparison to some of the most extreme hail occurrences recorded worldwide. The largest hailstone ever documented measured over 20 cm in diameter, while hail in Bangladesh has caused numerous fatalities. In 1888, India experienced the deadliest hailstorm, resulting in 246 deaths and devastating livestock.

    Current Weather Conditions

    Fortunately, the weather over the weekend has been milder. In Nicosia, temperatures reached a comfortable 23°C on Friday, with partly sunny skies. The forecast indicated a gradual warming trend through Saturday, before cooling slightly to 20°C on Sunday. Monday promises clearer skies with more sunshine.

    Limassol’s weather mirrored this trend, with Friday’s temperature climbing to 26°C. A brief precipitation event resulted in a 9-cm measurement that most likely reflects a data anomaly rather than a significant rain event. As the weekend progresses, temperatures are expected to hover around 21°C on Sunday, rebounding to 23°C on Monday.

    Regional Forecasts

    • Larnaca: Starting under mostly cloudy skies at 25°C on Friday, warming to 26°C on Saturday before dipping to 22°C on Sunday.
    • Paphos: A mix of partly sunny conditions and showers is expected, with temperatures ranging from 21°C on Sunday to 23°C on Monday.
    • Ayia Napa: This region will experience breezy conditions, with sunny spells on Friday and a temperature drop to 20°C on Sunday.
    • Troodos: The mountainous area will feel the chill, with temperatures dropping to near freezing on Saturday, and only reaching 15°C by Monday.

    Looking Ahead

    As the current pleasant weather settles in, indications suggest that more rain is on the horizon. Forecasts predict light showers across most districts on Thursday and Friday, coupled with cooler temperatures and breezier conditions. This upcoming weather shift will require residents to prepare adequately.

    Weekend Weather Tips

    • Savour the calm after a tumultuous week of hail and tornadoes.
    • Utilise Saturday’s sunshine for outdoor activities, as it offers the best weather of the weekend.
    • Be mindful of wind conditions, particularly in coastal areas and the Troodos region.
    • Make the most of Monday’s clear skies, providing a bright start to the week ahead.
    • Prepare for the anticipated rain later in the week, utilising the stable weather to catch up on any outdoor plans.

    As Cyprus navigates these erratic weather patterns, the hope is that the island can find a balance between enjoying the beauty of its climate while also safeguarding its agricultural and economic stability.

  • MPs Progress on Teacher Evaluation Bill, Seeking Compromise

    MPs Progress on Teacher Evaluation Bill, Seeking Compromise

    MPs are advancing discussions on a new teacher evaluation bill aimed at enhancing teaching performance, according to Diko MP Pavlos Mylonas, the chair of the House education committee. Mylonas expressed optimism that a workable outcome is within reach as various parties and individual MPs prepare amendments to the proposed legislation.

    Negotiations Focused on Clarity and Compromise

    Amid ongoing discussions, Mylonas highlighted the committee’s efforts to explore compromises that address concerns raised by education unions. He noted that ambiguities within the legislative framework, particularly regarding overlapping responsibilities, need clarification. The committee intends to tackle these issues during an article-by-article debate, and an extraordinary session may be convened if necessary to ensure the process is completed efficiently.

    Confidence in Plenary Progress

    When asked about the likelihood of the bill reaching the plenary, Mylonas conveyed strong confidence, stating he was “almost certain” that parliamentary groups would maintain their current positions. He emphasised the importance of creating a system that benefits teachers, ultimately leading to improved educational outcomes for students.

    Aiming for a Fairer Evaluation System

    Mylonas acknowledged that while the emerging proposal from the committee may not be flawless, it represents a genuine effort to establish a fair, effective, and merit-based evaluation system. With over 20,000 educators and more than 100,000 students impacted, the need for a balanced approach is paramount, and differing opinions are to be expected.

    Placing Students at the Centre

    Throughout the discussions, Mylonas reiterated the necessity of focusing on students’ needs, asserting that the interests of the majority should guide the legislative process. He remains hopeful that an agreement can be reached that reflects the collective interests of all stakeholders involved in the education sector.

    A Historical Perspective on Teacher Evaluation

    The push for a modernised teacher evaluation system follows Cyprus’s long-standing commitment to educational reform, dating back fifty years to the introduction of the first evaluation system. With the Republic now under EU obligations to update this framework, the stakes are high. The education ministry’s initial proposal, made nearly a year ago, has faced strong resistance from state school teachers, who advocate for maintaining the status quo while presenting their demands for change.

    A Comprehensive Summary of Ongoing Debates

    As discussions continue, a comprehensive summary of the long-standing debate regarding the new evaluation system is available for those looking to understand the complexities and nuances of this significant legislative effort.

  • Eu safe — Cabinet Approves Arms Procurement for EU Safe Programme

    Eu safe — Cabinet Approves Arms Procurement for EU Safe Programme

    eu safe — The cabinet has approved the list of armaments that Cyprus intends to procure through the Security Action for Europe (Safe) programme.

    • eu safe — The cabinet has approved the list of armaments that Cyprus intends to procure through the Security Action for Europe (Safe) programme.

    Prepared by the defence ministry, the list signifies a strategic move towards enhancing Cyprus’s defensive capabilities. Defence Minister Vasilis Palmas, while remaining tight-lipped about the specifics, emphasised the defensive nature of the armaments. “Under no circumstances do the armaments programmes on the list concern weapons systems with an offensive posture,” he stated, reflecting on Cyprus’s historical context as an occupied territory for over five decades.

    The formal submission of the armaments list to the European Commission is scheduled for November 30. Minister Palmas explained that once the procedure receives final approval, Cyprus will have access to allocated funds amounting to €1.2 billion. This crucial financial backing will enable the country to effectively bolster its defence mechanisms.

    Following the approval, the defence ministry plans to collaborate with the finance ministry to integrate these funds into the annual state budget. When asked about the potential suppliers for the procurement, Palmas noted that while France and Germany are among the likely candidates, there are various other countries involved in joint armament production.

    The Safe programme aims to foster collaboration among EU member states and allies for common procurements of military hardware. All EU member states, along with Ukraine, four European Economic Area states—namely Iceland, Liechtenstein, Norway, and Switzerland—and six additional nations with defence agreements with the EU, including Albania, Japan, Moldova, North Macedonia, South Korea, and the United Kingdom, are eligible to participate.

    Safe will provide long-term, low-cost loans to assist EU nations in acquiring essential defence equipment. To facilitate this, EU member states must submit their national investment plans to the European Commission by the end of November. The Commission will assess these plans with the aim of initiating the first disbursements in early 2026.

  • Cyprus National Guard Completes MEDUSA-14/2025 Exercise in Egypt

    Cyprus National Guard Completes MEDUSA-14/2025 Exercise in Egypt

    The Cyprus National Guard has concluded its participation in the multinational exercise MEDUSA-14/2025, which took place in Alexandria, Egypt. This ten-day event involved various military units from Cyprus, Greece, France, Egypt, and Saudi Arabia, focusing on enhancing cooperative operational capabilities.

    Photo: cyprus-mail.com

    Medusa-14: Multinational Collaboration

    During the exercise, forces from five nations came together to engage in a range of aeronautical operations. The Cyprus contingent included a submarine disaster team from the navy command, a special operations team, and the offshore patrol vessel “Ioannidis.” This vessel has a history of participation in similar exercises, underscoring its operational readiness.

    Final Phases and Leadership Participation

    The concluding phase of MEDUSA-14/2025 commenced on 16 November and culminated on Tuesday. Lieutenant General Emmanuel Theodorou, the newly appointed Chief of the National Guard, was present to oversee the final activities of the exercise, reflecting the importance of the event for Cyprus’s military strategy.

    A Focus on Coordination and Tactics

    The primary objective of the exercise was to enhance the coordination of multilateral actions at both operational and tactical levels. Such training is vital for ensuring that allied forces can effectively collaborate in real-world scenarios, promoting regional stability and security.

    Annual Tradition of MEDUSA Exercises

    MEDUSA is an annual military exercise typically held between October and November. Last year, the exercises were conducted in the maritime area of Crete, demonstrating a commitment to continuous improvement in joint military operations across the Mediterranean region.