Tag: community safety

  • Larnaca stabbing: Two Injured in Larnaca Apartment Stabbing Incident

    Larnaca stabbing: Two Injured in Larnaca Apartment Stabbing Incident

    larnaca stabbing — larnaca stabbing — A stabbing incident in a Larnaca apartment building has left two men injured, with one requiring hospitalisation due to a serious injury. The violent altercation unfolded late Friday night around 11 p.m., when a resident was attacked by two other men.

    The victim, whose identity has not been disclosed, was assaulted on the same floor where he lived. Emergency services responded swiftly, and he was transported to Larnaca General Hospital. Medical staff discovered a stab wound in his shoulder, believed to have been inflicted by a sharp object. Thankfully, his condition has been assessed as stable and he is reported to be out of danger.

    In a courageous attempt to intervene in the conflict, a 66-year-old resident of the building sustained a minor hand injury. He also received medical attention at Larnaca General Hospital but was discharged shortly after treatment.

    The Larnaca Criminal Investigation Department (CID) has taken charge of the investigation, working to understand the circumstances surrounding the attack. Authorities are expected to conduct interviews and gather evidence to piece together the full story behind this violent confrontation.

  • Ypsonas Factory Fire Leads to Permanent Closure Due to Licensing Issues

    Ypsonas Factory Fire Leads to Permanent Closure Due to Licensing Issues

    ypsonas factory — The Ypsonas factory, which was engulfed in flames earlier this week, will not reopen due to a lack of proper operational licences, according to Curium mayor Pantelis Georgiou. The facility, initially licensed as a stationery and aluminium warehouse, harboured undisclosed gas cylinders that contributed to the devastating fire.

    In a statement made on Friday, Georgiou revealed that the presence of these gas cylinders was unknown to local authorities, raising serious safety questions about the factory’s operations. “Those who violate the law will be brought to justice,” he asserted, emphasising the commitment to hold accountable those responsible for the oversight.

    The fire not only destroyed the factory but also inflicted damage on nearby residential properties. Georgiou stated that assessments of the damage caused by the fire and resulting explosions would be conducted. He also announced plans for thorough inspections of similar facilities located close to residential areas, aiming to prevent future incidents.

    In connection with the fire, a 43-year-old former employee of the factory was arrested on Wednesday. Reports indicate that he had made threats against the factory’s owner prior to the incident. He was subsequently remanded in police custody for seven days as investigations continue.

  • Near-drowning — Four-Year-Old Boy Airlifted to Israel Following Near-Drowning at Paphos Hotel Pool

    Near-drowning — Four-Year-Old Boy Airlifted to Israel Following Near-Drowning at Paphos Hotel Pool

    near-drowning — A four-year-old boy has been airlifted to Israel in critical condition after a near-drowning incident at a hotel pool in Paphos on 20 August. The child, an Israeli national, was initially treated at Makarios Hospital in Nicosia, where he remained on life support.

    The incident took place shortly after the boy and his family arrived in Paphos for a holiday. According to police reports, the family, consisting of the mother and two children, had just checked into their hotel in the Chlorakas area and decided to head to the pool while their accommodation was being prepared.

    It was a swimmer who first noticed the boy at the bottom of the pool and quickly brought him to the surface. Lifeguards and the child’s mother attempted to administer first aid, but the boy remained unconscious. Emergency services were called and transported him to Paphos Hospital.

    Upon arrival at Paphos Hospital, medical staff assessed the situation and determined that the child required immediate transfer to a specialist unit at Makarios Hospital. Following intubation, he was moved by ambulance to the capital for further treatment.

    The mother of the child, aged 51, informed police that her son had been playing in the shallow end of the pool under her supervision. She had turned her attention to her younger child when the four-year-old apparently wandered into the deeper section of the pool.

  • Elderly Swimmer Tragically Dies at Limassol Beach Before Lifeguards Arrive

    Elderly Swimmer Tragically Dies at Limassol Beach Before Lifeguards Arrive

    An 80-year-old swimmer died at Dassoudi beach in Limassol on Thursday morning, raising urgent concerns about the timing of lifeguard supervision. The incident occurred at a time when no lifeguards were present, leading to calls for a reassessment of the current schedule.

    Witnesses reported that the man was discovered unconscious in the water and subsequently washed ashore in front of approximately ten beachgoers who were unable to intervene effectively. This unfortunate event marks the fifth recorded drowning at Limassol beaches this season and the second within the week.

    Swimmer: Timing of Lifeguard Services Under Scrutiny

    Beachgoers noted that lifeguards typically start their duty at 10:00 am, while many swimmers, especially elderly individuals, frequent the beach as early as 6:30 am to avoid the midday heat. The gap between these times raises significant questions regarding the adequacy of lifeguard coverage during peak swimming hours for older residents.

    Witness Accounts Highlight Urgent Need for Change

    Witnesses at the scene expressed frustration over the lack of lifeguard presence when they felt it was most needed. A social media post from a concerned citizen underscored the discrepancy between the number of swimmers and the availability of lifeguards, stressing that the busiest swimming period for elderly residents occurs well before official supervision begins.

    Context of Drownings at Limassol Beaches

    This tragic incident is not isolated; it adds to a worrying trend at Limassol beaches, with a total of five drownings recorded this season. The frequency of these occurrences has raised alarm among local authorities and community members alike, prompting discussions on how to protect vulnerable swimmers.

    As the community comes to terms with this loss, there is a growing sentiment that immediate action is necessary to prevent further tragedies. The call for revised lifeguard schedules is gaining momentum, as residents advocate for better safety measures to ensure that beachgoers, particularly the elderly, can enjoy the waters without fear.

  • Suspect Remanded Following Nicosia Burglary Arrest

    Suspect Remanded Following Nicosia Burglary Arrest

    nicosia burglary — nicosia burglary — A 43-year-old man has been remanded in custody for six days after being arrested in connection with a burglary in Nicosia. The suspect was taken into custody on Wednesday afternoon, shortly after a shop owner reported a break-in at his store.

    • Authorities have confirmed that investigations are ongoing as they work to recover any additional stolen items and gather further evidence.

    The burglary reportedly occurred between August 12 and 20, during which various electronic parts and machinery were stolen from the shop’s storage room. The shop owner alerted the police on Wednesday, prompting an immediate investigation.

    Police investigations led them to the suspect, who was arrested later that day. Following his arrest, a search of his residence uncovered part of the stolen property, linking him directly to the crime.

    Authorities have confirmed that investigations are ongoing as they work to recover any additional stolen items and gather further evidence.

  • Larnaca scam — Elderly Woman Falls Victim to Larnaca Scam

    Larnaca scam — Elderly Woman Falls Victim to Larnaca Scam

    larnaca scam — An elderly woman was robbed of jewellery and money at her Larnaca home on Wednesday after being tricked by a caller claiming to be from the Electricity Authority of Cyprus (EAC).

    • larnaca scam — An elderly woman was robbed of jewellery and money at her Larnaca home on Wednesday after being tricked by a caller claiming to be from the Electricity Authority of Cyprus (EAC).
    • After she complied, the man insisted she return inside to switch off the main electricity supply, keeping her engaged on the line. When she came back outside, her basket of valuables had vanished.
    • The case is currently under investigation by Kofinou police, who are working to identify the suspects involved in this disturbing incident.

    According to police, the woman received a phone call around 12.30pm from an unknown woman who said the government was offering free domestic worker services for the elderly. This seemingly innocuous offer quickly turned sinister as the scam unfolded.

    The caller asked for personal details to file an application, which led to a connection with a man who introduced himself as an EAC employee. He claimed there were serious electrical issues in her home, stating that it was at risk of catching fire.

    In a state of alarm, the woman followed his instructions to remove her valuables, including jewellery and cash, for safety. She placed these items in a basket on her porch, believing she was taking necessary precautions.

    After she complied, the man insisted she return inside to switch off the main electricity supply, keeping her engaged on the line. When she came back outside, her basket of valuables had vanished.

    Witnesses reported seeing a man leaving the scene on foot shortly after the theft. Authorities have urged residents to remain vigilant, as scammers are continuously developing new tactics to deceive unsuspecting individuals.

    The case is currently under investigation by Kofinou police, who are working to identify the suspects involved in this disturbing incident.

  • Paralimni stabbing: Paralimni Restaurant Stabbing: 23-Year-Old Charged with Attempted Murder

    Paralimni stabbing: Paralimni Restaurant Stabbing: 23-Year-Old Charged with Attempted Murder

    paralimni stabbing — A 23-year-old man has been charged with attempted murder following a stabbing incident at a restaurant in Paralimni, where he allegedly attacked an 18-year-old victim.

    • paralimni stabbing — A 23-year-old man has been charged with attempted murder following a stabbing incident at a restaurant in Paralimni, where he allegedly attacked an 18-year-old victim.

    Paralimni stabbing: Criminal Background Raises Concerns

    The accused, who has a troubled criminal history, reportedly stabbed the young man in the stomach at a restaurant owned by the victim’s father. Information from Philenews indicates that the assailant had previously drawn police attention for thefts and burglaries. Notably, he had recently been released from prison on 12 August, just four days before the violent altercation.

    Details of the Attack

    The incident occurred around 8:15pm on Saturday evening, with diners witnessing the shocking attack. Emergency services arrived promptly, discovering the 18-year-old had sustained serious injuries from a sharp object. Initially transported to Famagusta General Hospital, he was later moved to Nicosia General Hospital, where medical staff confirmed his condition was stable and no longer life-threatening.

    Perpetrator Arrested

    Law enforcement quickly located the suspect approximately half an hour later, reportedly found walking in his underwear in the vicinity of Paralimni. Initially arrested for disturbing the peace, the police later connected him to the stabbing and charged him with attempted murder.

    Legal Proceedings Underway

    On Sunday, the accused appeared before Famagusta District Court, which granted an eight-day detention to facilitate ongoing investigations by Famagusta CID. Authorities are working to determine the motive behind the attack and any possible connections between the suspect and the victim.

    Municipality Expresses Safety Concerns

    The Paralimni-Deryneia Municipality has voiced its alarm over the incident, labelling it an assault on the area’s reputation as a tourist destination. In a public statement, the municipality called for the state to take responsibility for the safety of both residents and visitors, emphasising the need to address the presence of individuals with criminal backgrounds who pose a threat to public safety.

    “Particular concern is caused by the fact that individuals with apparently troubled histories of criminal behaviour circulate unhindered, causing disruption to our society’s life and manifesting acts of violence,” the announcement stated. The municipality acknowledged the swift response of the Famagusta Police Directorate in apprehending the suspect.

  • Tsada fire: Firefighters Contain Blaze Near Tsada, One Evacuated Amid Strong Winds

    Tsada fire: Firefighters Contain Blaze Near Tsada, One Evacuated Amid Strong Winds

    Tsada fire: Firefighters Have Successfully Contained A Wildfire In

    Firefighters have successfully contained a wildfire in the Tsada and Koili areas, tsada fire with efforts largely focused on protecting isolated homes and the new Saint Elias chapel situated on a nearby hill. Marios Ioannou, head of the Tsada community council, reported that despite the rapid spread of the fire, the quick response from ground forces and aerial support has made a significant difference.

    The fire, which ignited amid strong winds, burned through dry weeds and shrubbery, challenging firefighters and local officials. The thick greenery and tough terrain further complicated their efforts. Local officials, supported by residents, mobilised all available resources to assist the fire service and the forestry department in combating the blaze.

    The Fire, Which Ignited Amid Strong Winds

    Ioannou praised the bravery of the firefighters, stating, “Thanks to their quick action, we have managed to save homes near the community.” He confirmed that although one resident initially refused to evacuate, he was ultimately escorted to safety.

    The combination of strong winds and the area’s rough landscape posed a formidable challenge, but firefighters remained dedicated to their mission. Ground forces, alongside air support, concentrated on preventing the fire from reaching the Tsada-Koili-Tala main core, a crucial area within the community.

    As the situation stabilises, the community rallies together, grateful for the swift intervention that has limited damage. The dedication shown by both the firefighters and local citizens exemplifies the spirit of cooperation during crisis moments.

  • Fire tsada: Fire Erupts in Tsada, Prompting Road Closures and Emergency Response

    Fire tsada: Fire Erupts in Tsada, Prompting Road Closures and Emergency Response

    Fire tsada: A Large Fire Has Erupted In The

    A large fire has erupted in the Tsada area of Paphos, fire tsada leading to significant road closures and a major firefighting operation on Sunday.

    • A large fire has erupted in the Tsada area of Paphos, fire tsada leading to significant road closures and a major firefighting operation on Sunday.

    Authorities swiftly closed the road from Polis Chrysochous towards Paphos, particularly at the Stroumbi area near Lemona, alongside the main Mesogi–Tsada route. Police are actively directing traffic and implementing diversions to ensure safety.

    Authorities Swiftly Closed The Road From Polis

    The situation has drawn a robust response, with both ground and aerial firefighting units deployed to tackle the flames. However, strong winds are complicating efforts to contain the blaze, as reported by the local authorities.

    As the fire continues to rage, officials have indicated that the cause will be thoroughly investigated once it has been fully extinguished. Residents and visitors are urged to stay clear of the affected areas as the firefighting teams work diligently to bring the situation under control.