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Tag: Larnaca

  • Larnaca-Brussels Direct Flights Secured for Cypriot EU Presidency

    Larnaca-Brussels Direct Flights Secured for Cypriot EU Presidency

    The Cypriot Presidency of the Council of the European Union has secured direct flights between Larnaca and Brussels for one year, enhancing connectivity for travellers. This significant achievement was made possible through a successful Public Service Obligation (PSO) tender, which is a key step in facilitating travel during Cyprus’s leadership role within the EU.

    Direct flights: Flights Set to Commence Soon

    Scheduled to begin in December 2025, the direct air link is anticipated to serve tens of thousands of passengers, effectively connecting Cyprus with the European Union’s central hub. The Cypriot government has prioritised this initiative, recognising the importance of ease of travel during its upcoming presidency, which officially starts on 1 January 2026.

    Details of the Tender Process

    The PSO tender, which closed on 30 October 2023, received a single bid from Aegean Airlines. Cypriot officials, working in tandem with the EU Secretariat and the European Commission, ensured the tender process was thorough and compliant with EU regulations. This collaboration underscores the importance of the initiative for both Cyprus and the EU.

    Flight Schedule to Support High Visitor Numbers

    The agreement, expected to be formalised shortly, outlines the following flight frequencies:

    • December 2025: 3 weekly flights
    • January – June 2026: 5 weekly flights
    • July 2026: 3 weekly flights
    • August – November 2026: 2 weekly flights

    These flights are designed to accommodate the influx of visitors anticipated during the Cypriot Presidency, which will involve approximately 260 informal meetings and is expected to draw around 28,000 visitors for various high-level gatherings.

    Government Commitment to Enhanced Connectivity

    Deputy Minister for European Affairs Marilena Raouna and Transport Minister Alexis Vafeades have been instrumental in driving this initiative forward. Their systematic efforts to promote these flights, in collaboration with relevant bodies in Cyprus and Brussels, highlight the government’s commitment to ensuring that the presidency is not only successful but also accessible to international visitors.

    As Cyprus prepares to take on this pivotal role within the EU, the establishment of direct flights between Larnaca and Brussels marks a significant milestone in enhancing its connectivity and facilitating important diplomatic engagements.

  • Larnaca Launches Door-to-Door Campaign to Tackle Mosquito Surge

    Larnaca Launches Door-to-Door Campaign to Tackle Mosquito Surge

    mosquito surge — Larnaca municipality is actively addressing a surge in mosquito complaints through a door-to-door campaign in the Salt Lake area, where health officials have raised alarms about the presence of disease-carrying species in Cyprus.

    Mosquito surge: Municipal Efforts to Combat Mosquitoes

    The municipality’s Health Department is implementing a rigorous plan that includes spraying standing water, storm drains, and urban rivers every 10-12 days. This effort utilises biological insecticides that have been approved by the Ministry of Agriculture.

    Home Visits to Identify Breeding Sites

    Health teams from both municipal and provincial levels are visiting homes to help identify potential mosquito breeding sites and to educate residents about preventive measures. The department has noted that while standing water around the Salt Lake serves as a breeding ground for mosquitoes, spraying within the protected area itself is prohibited, with operations confined to the perimeter.

    Monitoring and Trapping

    To further combat the mosquito surge, the municipality has placed traps throughout the area. The Ministry of Health conducts regular checks to assess whether the mosquitoes pose a public health threat, testing samples to determine if disease-carrying species are present.

    In addition to common mosquitoes, residents report bites from sandflies, referred to as “silent mosquitoes,” along with other insects that thrive in trees, hedges, and decaying leaves.

    Identifying Home Breeding Sites

    The municipal Health Department spokesperson has indicated that the mosquito problem is exacerbated by two primary sources. Mosquitoes can breed inside homes, where authorities have identified common breeding sites including:

    • Plant pots
    • Exposed water containers
    • Old tyres
    • Small fountains

    “The campaign is year-round and covers the municipal districts under our jurisdiction, namely Livadia and Voroklini,” the spokesperson explained.

    Targeting Aedes Aegypti Species

    Health Ministry teams are conducting a focused door-to-door campaign aimed at the Aedes aegypti mosquito, educating the public on effective control measures. This species is particularly concerning due to its ability to transmit various infectious diseases.

    High-Risk Locations for Mosquito Breeding

    Municipal officials have pinpointed several locations that require special attention due to their potential for mosquito breeding:

    • Disused swimming pools
    • Old septic tanks not properly sealed
    • Construction site excavations
    • Old tyres and water storage barrels
    • Blocked storm drain grilles
    • Cemetery flower vases

    Disused swimming pools pose a major concern, while improperly sealed septic tanks create additional breeding grounds. Construction sites, too, can inadvertently contribute to the problem, especially if excavations collect water.

    Managing Tyre Risks

    Old tyres are particularly problematic, especially at outdoor tyre repair shops or garages. Authorities emphasise the importance of regularly removing tyres by licensed companies. If tyres are to remain on site for extended periods, they must be stored in covered areas to prevent rainwater accumulation.

    Flower Vases in Cemeteries

    Officials have also highlighted that cemetery flower vases can become breeding sites if water remains stagnant for long periods. Residents are advised to change the water in these vases every seven days to mitigate the risk.

    Health Risks Associated with Mosquitoes

    The mosquito species now identified in Cyprus are not just a nuisance; they can transmit serious infectious diseases to humans. These include:

    • Yellow Fever virus
    • Dengue Fever
    • Zika virus
    • West Nile virus

    As the mosquito situation escalates, public health officials are urging residents to remain vigilant and proactive in preventing mosquito breeding in and around their homes.

    Community Engagement and Support

    The municipality’s door-to-door campaign aims not only to inform residents but also to foster community engagement in combating the mosquito problem. Public cooperation is crucial in identifying and eliminating potential breeding sites.

    Officials encourage residents to report any issues they encounter, whether it be stagnant water or potential breeding grounds, to the municipality’s Health Department, ensuring a collective effort in managing this pressing public health concern.

  • Pro-palestine protests — Pro-Palestine Protests Gather Momentum in Nicosia, Larnaca, and Paphos

    Pro-palestine protests — Pro-Palestine Protests Gather Momentum in Nicosia, Larnaca, and Paphos

    pro-palestine protests — Pro-Palestine protests are currently underway in Nicosia, Larnaca, and Paphos, organised by the online group United for Palestine CY. The demonstrations began as calls for solidarity with Palestinians echo across the island.

    Photo: in-cyprus.philenews.com

    Pro-palestine protests: Gatherings Across Major Cities

    In Nicosia, participants started to assemble at 4:00 p.m. in Eleftheria Square. The crowd then marched along Ledras Street, returning to the Square via Onasagorou Street in a show of unity and purpose.

    Photo: in-cyprus.philenews.com

    Meanwhile, in Larnaca, the event kicked off at 6:00 p.m. at Europe Square (Finikoudes), where demonstrators expressed their support for Palestinian rights. In Paphos, the protest began at 5:30 p.m. at the Municipal Hall Square (Platia Dimotikou Megarou), where the atmosphere was similarly charged with passion for the cause.

    Police Presence and Regulations

    The police have been deployed in all three cities to oversee the events, ensuring they proceed peacefully. In line with the Public Gatherings and Processions Law 151(I) of 2025, organisers are required to maintain the peaceful nature of the protests, cooperate with local authorities, and adhere to any restrictions set by law enforcement.

    In an official announcement, it was stressed that the police possess the authority to impose restrictions or disperse gatherings if they turn violent or pose a risk to public safety. This includes situations where participants may obscure their identities.

    Community Engagement and Solidarity

    The protests serve not only as a demonstration of support for Palestine but also as a platform for community engagement. Various local leaders and activists have joined the gatherings, amplifying the call for awareness on the Palestinian plight.

    As the evening progresses, the sights and sounds of the protests have filled the air, drawing attention to the ongoing struggles faced by Palestinians. The sense of unity among participants reflects a growing movement within the community, manifesting in solidarity beyond borders.

  • Larnaca Biennale to Unveil Artistic Lines and Traces Across the City

    Larnaca Biennale to Unveil Artistic Lines and Traces Across the City

    larnaca biennale — Larnaca Biennale will showcase a wealth of artistic lines and traces as it prepares for its fourth edition, set to commence in less than a week. Running from October 15 to November 28, the event promises a vibrant cultural programme spanning six-and-a-half weeks, featuring exhibitions, installations, performances, and workshops that will transform the city into a cultural hub.

    Photo: cyprus-mail.com

    Larnaca biennale: Curator’s Vision Comes to Life

    With final preparations underway, curator Sana López Abellán expressed excitement about the unfolding of the Biennale, stating, “I am excited to witness how the Biennale unfolds across its venues, weaving together a collective story that belongs to both the artists and the community.” The anticipation is palpable as artists from around the globe arrive to install their works, creating an environment where lines and traces become tangible.

    Photo: cyprus-mail.com

    Exhibition Venues Spread Across Larnaca

    The entire Larnaca district will feature selected artworks displayed across 13 indoor and outdoor locations, including notable sites such as the Larnaca Municipal Art Gallery, Pierides Museum, and Larnaca Medieval Castle. The opening ceremony will take place on Wednesday, marking the beginning of an engaging cultural experience. Additional exhibitions will be hosted at the Kallinikeio Municipal Museum in Athienou and the Costas Argyrou Museum in Mazotos.

    Key Installations and Performances

    Among the highlights of the main exhibition are three installation-performances and participatory events. Togetherness – Resonances of Expression and 22 Stops are set to take place on Thursday, while Unspoken Messages will invite public participation at Zouhouri Square, encouraging attendees to engage with the artwork actively.

    Workshops Encouraging Community Engagement

    The Biennale also features an array of workshops aimed at fostering creativity and community connections. The first workshop, The.Curious.Curly’s Cyanotype Tales, will occur on October 17 and November 1, guiding participants through journaling exercises and cyanotype-making. Participants are encouraged to bring a personal photograph from their youth, sharing stories while creating their original cyanotype print.

    Exploring Identity Through Art

    On October 18, the Canada-based duo Anana Rydvald and Zach Fraser will present The Lines and Traces of Identity, a theatrical workshop that utilises emotive masked play to explore personal and collective identity. This workshop exemplifies the Biennale’s focus on integrating artistic practice with meaningful dialogues.

    Bicommunal Art Project Fostering Unity

    The Weaving Unity project on October 25 aims to bring together Greek Cypriots and Turkish Cypriots through a symbolic weaving workshop, culminating in an open artistic celebration on October 26, curated by interdisciplinary designer Konstantinos Charilaou.

    Engaging Performance Art Offerings

    Performance art will also play a significant role in the Biennale, starting with the contemporary dance performance The Thread by the Aphelion Dance Company on October 18. This piece reinterprets the myth of Ariadne and the Minotaur, exploring themes of identity and transformation through movement and narrative.

    Interactive Experiences for Audiences

    The Ichnilat(r)is performance, scheduled for October 19, 25, and November 1, 2, 8, and 9, invites audiences to participate in a unique experience that allows them to choose their role—whether to act or observe—creating a dynamic interaction with the performance.

    Celebrating Love and Heartache

    Anana Rydvald and Zach Fraser will also present their non-verbal mime performance, The Sighlence of Sky, on October 23 and 24. This tender performance offers an ode to love and heartache, navigating themes of disability and neurodivergence through familial relationships.

    Festivals, Films, and Educational Programmes

    The Biennale will also feature the Artist Quarter Piale Pasha Festival, offering guided tours of the artists’ quarter alongside performances and street food from October 18-19. Moreover, the Larnaka Cinema Society will present a selection of films across three evenings on November 10, 17, and 24.

    Creative Workshops for Young Artists

    In the educational programme The Art of Together, actress and theatre facilitator Theodora Andreou will run six creative workshops for children, culminating in a collective art installation at the Municipal Market of Larnaca on October 18, 25, and November 1, 8, 15.

    Open Art Schools Event

    The Open Art Schools event on November 2 will showcase the creative works of students from six art schools across Larnaca, providing families with the opportunity to explore the art world through the eyes of children.

    Experiential Events Highlighting Local Culture

    Curator Abellán will lead a guided Curator’s Walk on October 17, inviting participants to experience Larnaca’s streets and shoreline anew, while Zeno Philosophical Swim on October 22 and 26 connects philosophy with water and everyday activities through a swimming symposium and film screening.

    Tribute to Cypriot Artist Stass Paraskos

    A performance walk, Tracing Stass, will honour the iconic Cypriot artist and educator on October 25 and November 1. Artists Emilios Koutsoftides and Simon Pruciak will guide participants through Stass’ childhood surroundings, reflecting on the landscapes that inspired his work.

    Closing Celebrations and Community Involvement

    The Biennale will conclude with a live music performance on November 21, featuring the three-piece band consisting of Nikos Bardis, Antonis Nomikos, and Giorgos Laggouretos. They will present a unique project inspired by beloved Greek songs, creating an improvisational soundscape that embodies the spirit of the Biennale.

    Finally, the Traces of Our Heritage exhibition and award ceremony on November 27 will showcase work from students and community members, celebrating local culture, history, and traditions through designed products.

  • Overnight Pharmacies Available Across Cyprus on October 9

    Overnight Pharmacies Available Across Cyprus on October 9

    Overnight pharmacies will be available across Cyprus on Thursday, October 9, providing essential services to those in need after regular business hours.

    Overnight pharmacies: Pharmacies in Nicosia

    In the capital city, several pharmacies will remain open overnight:

    • Theofanous Thekla, Polykleitou 8, PEO Trade Union Pharmacy, Nicosia, tel. 22349778.
    • Georgiadis Ploutarchos, Tseriou Avenue 34C, next to “ZAKO” and opposite “BLUE ISLAND” fish market, Strovolos, tel. 22311995, 99042275.
    • Assioti Eva, Angelos Terzakis 4, apt. 2, from Agios Panteleimon towards Tymvou, at the first traffic lights left then 1st right at 500m, Engomi, tel. 22255524.
    • Proestou Margarita, Stasinou 46, apt. 3, opposite Central Bank, next to “Gloria Jeans”, Strovolos, tel. 22952095, 96626370.
    • Varelia Liza, Achaion 6C, Nicosia Polyclinic road, opposite “Altius” hotel, Nicosia, tel. 22776861, 99006201.
    • Pastelli Eleni, Archbishop Makarios III 33 I&Θ, next to “Coffee Island”, opposite “CYTACOM SOLUTIONS” and “AELIOTIS”, Latsia, tel. 22574573, 99375857.

    Pharmacies in Limassol

    Limassol will also host several overnight pharmacies:

    • Petridou Chryso, Omonoia Avenue 12, “Alexia Court”, Limassol, tel. 25571632, 25770448.
    • Filippidou – Fourla Marina, Nikos Pattichis 7A, 500m north of Polemidia traffic lights, between Petrolina and EKO fuel stations, Limassol, tel. 25334403, 25770275.
    • Solomonidou Christiana, Agias Fylaxeos 199, “Galaxia Center”, next to “Zorpas” bakery, opposite CYTA, near Agia Fyla roundabout, Limassol, tel. 25212266, 99354537.
    • Nikolaidou Georgia, Griva Digeni 2, apt. 8, next to Courts and opposite St. Mary’s school, Limassol, tel. 25222223, 97863108.
    • Leonidou Natasa, Kolonakiou 60, “COLUMBIA” road, Linopetras area, opposite “ELECTROLINE”, Agios Athanasios, tel. 25327766, 25102915.

    Pharmacies in Larnaca

    Larnaca residents can access the following overnight pharmacies:

    • Rotis Christofora, Kyriakou Matsis 5, apt. 1, opposite “SUPER DISCOUNT STORE”, Livadia-Aradippou border, Livadia, tel. 24400897, 97790853.
    • Sokratous – Kyprianou Eleni, Kilkis 15-17, “Antroulla Court”, apt. 4, near Nuns School, Larnaca, tel. 24651035, 24624163.
    • Michail Elena, Georgios Christodoulidis 5, between “Kleima” roundabout and new GSZ roundabout, Larnaca, tel. 24250900.

    Pharmacies in Paphos

    Paphos will also have a selection of pharmacies open overnight:

    • Ellinas Irini, Danais 31B, opposite “Olympic Lagoon Resort” (former “Amathus”), Kato Paphos, tel. 26964837.
    • Erotokritou Anna, King Stasikos, apt. 3, Prodromi, tel. 26652110, 97678977.

    Pharmacies in Famagusta

    In the Famagusta region, the following pharmacies will be operational:

    • Kamilaris Andreas, Korais 52, opposite Paralimni Lyceum, Paralimni, tel. 23744160, 23743418.
    • Pittatzii Kornilia, 1st April 10C, near Hellenic Bank (former Cooperative), Sotira, tel. 23824730, 23823308.

    These pharmacies are crucial in ensuring that communities across Cyprus have access to necessary medications and healthcare support during the night, providing peace of mind for residents.

  • Larnaca collision: Three Hospitalised in Five-Car Collision on Larnaca’s Eleftheria Avenue

    Larnaca collision: Three Hospitalised in Five-Car Collision on Larnaca’s Eleftheria Avenue

    larnaca collision — A five-car collision on Larnaca’s Eleftheria Avenue has left three drivers hospitalised, following a crash that occurred on Monday evening.

    • larnaca collision — A five-car collision on Larnaca's Eleftheria Avenue has left three drivers hospitalised, following a crash that occurred on Monday evening.
    • The incident took place around 5:30pm at the Rizoelia roundabout, where the vehicles collided, resulting in injuries to three of the drivers involved.
    • According to local police, the three drivers were taken to a nearby hospital for medical examinations to assess their injuries. Fortunately, there were no other passengers in any of the vehicles.
    • This incident highlights ongoing concerns regarding road safety in the area. As investigations continue, local residents are reminded to remain cautious and vigilant while driving.

    The incident took place around 5:30pm at the Rizoelia roundabout, where the vehicles collided, resulting in injuries to three of the drivers involved.

    According to local police, the three drivers were taken to a nearby hospital for medical examinations to assess their injuries. Fortunately, there were no other passengers in any of the vehicles.

    In the aftermath of the crash, Larnaca traffic police have initiated an investigation to determine the circumstances surrounding the collision. Authorities are working to piece together the events leading up to the incident, including any factors that may have contributed to the crash.

    This incident highlights ongoing concerns regarding road safety in the area. As investigations continue, local residents are reminded to remain cautious and vigilant while driving.

  • Arrest of Russian-Israeli Citizen in Larnaca Linked to Sea Piracy Charges

    Arrest of Russian-Israeli Citizen in Larnaca Linked to Sea Piracy Charges

    A Russian-Israeli citizen, Alexei Kartzgor, has been arrested in Larnaca under an Interpol warrant for his alleged involvement in sea piracy.

    • A Russian-Israeli citizen, Alexei Kartzgor, has been arrested in Larnaca under an Interpol warrant for his alleged involvement in sea piracy.
    • Following his arrest, Kartzgor is set to appear before the Larnaca District Court on Monday, where proceedings will begin to address the extradition request from Russia.

    The 47-year-old was apprehended on Saturday at Larnaca port, following an international arrest warrant issued by Russian authorities. According to a police spokesperson, this arrest is connected to an old case involving the hijacking of the cargo ship Arctic Sea in the Baltic Sea.

    Kartzgor’s arrest has garnered attention, particularly after reports from Israeli newspaper Yedioth Ahronoth confirmed the details. It is believed that he arrived in Cyprus by ship, unaware of the pending warrant against him.

    In a twist, it has been reported that Kartzgor was previously arrested in connection with the same case. He was released on bail in 2009 but subsequently fled, prompting Russian officials to seek his extradition.

    Following his arrest, Kartzgor is set to appear before the Larnaca District Court on Monday, where proceedings will begin to address the extradition request from Russia.

  • Cannabis — 26-Year-Old Man Arrested at Larnaca Airport with 24kg of Cannabis

    Cannabis — 26-Year-Old Man Arrested at Larnaca Airport with 24kg of Cannabis

    A 26-year-old man has been arrested at Larnaca airport after customs officers discovered nearly 24 kilograms of cannabis in his luggage following his arrival from a European country.

    • A 26-year-old man has been arrested at Larnaca airport after customs officers discovered nearly 24 kilograms of cannabis in his luggage following his arrival from a European country.
    • The YKAN's Larnaca Unit is now looking into several charges against the individual, including importation, possession, and possession of narcotics with intent to supply to others.

    The incident took place shortly after 5.30pm yesterday, as part of ongoing operations led by the Police’s Drug Law Enforcement Unit (YKAN) in collaboration with the Customs Department. These operations aim to identify individuals attempting to import narcotics into Cyprus.

    Acting on intelligence gathered by YKAN members, customs officers conducted a search of the suspect as he passed through the “Nothing to Declare” channel in the arrivals area of Larnaca airport. He had just disembarked from a European flight when officers found the substantial haul.

    In total, officers seized 44 packages containing dried cannabis plant material, with the total gross weight amounting to 23 kilograms and 946 grams. The man was promptly arrested and remains in custody as police continue their investigation.

    The YKAN’s Larnaca Unit is now looking into several charges against the individual, including importation, possession, and possession of narcotics with intent to supply to others.

  • Two Arrested After Viral Assault on Larnaca Minibus Driver

    larnaca minibus — Two suspects, aged 22 and 50, have been arrested in connection with an assault on a minibus driver in Larnaca, an incident that has since gone viral.

    • larnaca minibus — Two suspects, aged 22 and 50, have been arrested in connection with an assault on a minibus driver in Larnaca, an incident that has since gone viral.

    The shocking attack occurred last Saturday and was captured on video, quickly spreading across social media platforms. The footage depicts two individuals verbally assaulting the driver of a minibus before escalating to physical violence.

    In the video, the confrontation appears to be unprovoked as the assailants lash out at the driver of a following vehicle, a minibus. One of the attackers strikes the driver in the face, leading to a chaotic scene on the road.

    After being struck, the minibus driver exited his vehicle in an attempt to document the licence plates of the assailants’ vehicle. In a dangerous turn of events, as he positioned himself in front of their vehicle, one of the attackers accelerated, nearly running him over. Remarkably, the driver managed to evade serious injury.

    Local police confirmed the arrests were made to facilitate further investigations into this alarming incident. They have urged witnesses or anyone with additional footage to come forward as they work to gather more information about the circumstances surrounding the assault.

    This incident highlights growing concerns over safety on the roads and the potential for road rage to escalate into violence. Authorities are calling for increased awareness and caution among drivers to prevent such occurrences in the future.

  • Larnaca assault: Teenager Held After Alleged Assault in Larnaca

    Larnaca assault: Teenager Held After Alleged Assault in Larnaca

    larnaca assault — A 16-year-old boy was remanded in police custody for four days following an alleged assault in Larnaca.

    • larnaca assault — A 16-year-old boy was remanded in police custody for four days following an alleged assault in Larnaca.

    The Larnaca district court issued the order on Saturday to facilitate the ongoing police investigation into the incident. Authorities were alerted on Friday evening around 9pm to reports of an injured individual at a residential building in the area.

    Upon arrival, police found a 41-year-old man with a head injury. The victim informed officers that he had been attacked by a group of individuals. He was subsequently taken to Larnaca General Hospital, where he received first aid before being discharged.

    Investigators gathered evidence linking the teenager to the assault, leading to his arrest under a court warrant. The boy appeared before the district court, which approved his detention to assist in the inquiries.