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  • 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.

  • Tepak farm — Tepak Farm Faces €80,000 Repairs After Wildfire Devastation

    Tepak farm — Tepak Farm Faces €80,000 Repairs After Wildfire Devastation

    Tepak farm, part of the Cyprus University of Technology, is facing significant repair costs of approximately €80,000 following damage from a recent wildfire in Limassol.

    • Tepak farm, part of the Cyprus University of Technology, is facing significant repair costs of approximately €80,000 following damage from a recent wildfire in Limassol.

    A detailed report, prepared by the Department of Agricultural Sciences, Biotechnology and Food Science, has been submitted to the university’s rectorate. Professor Demetris Tsaltas indicated that the funds are primarily needed for replacing equipment destroyed in the blaze.

    Tepak farm: Wildfire’s Impact on Agriculture

    The wildfire, which broke out on July 23 in the wine villages of Limassol, affected the farm’s 16 hectares of cultivated land, including greenhouses, offices, and storage areas. While many of the crops, such as vineyards and fruit-bearing plants, escaped direct contact with the flames, the extreme temperatures scorched the exterior of some plants.

    Assessing Damage and Recovery

    Professor Tsaltas explained that the situation remains fluid, as the coming weeks will reveal which plants can be salvaged and which need to be replaced. He expressed concern that this year’s production will suffer losses, along with potential impacts on next year’s yields.

    Students conducting research projects at the farm have also been affected. To mitigate the damage, efforts are underway to manually water some plants, enabling students to continue their work despite the adversity.

    Plans for Restoration

    The aim is to minimise disruption to research and teaching at the farm, with hopes to restore operations by the 2026–27 academic year. The speed at which restoration funds are released will play a critical role in purchasing necessary equipment and materials.

    Initial inspections have revealed some positive signs, with certain trees showing signs of life despite their damaged appearance. However, Tsaltas cautioned that determining the true extent of recovery will require weeks or even months. The forthcoming winter and spring months are seen as crucial for the farm’s resurgence.

    Environmental Concerns

    In addition to the visible damage, Tsaltas noted potential long-term impacts on soil quality due to pollutants from the fire. Concerns have been raised regarding toxic substances that may leach into groundwater, posing further challenges for future cultivation.

    The Role of Sustainable Practices

    In discussions surrounding fire prevention, Tsaltas highlighted the importance of maintaining well-cultivated areas. He mentioned that isolated crops surrounded by uncultivated land could limit fire spread, but stressed that heat stress would still affect production. Maintaining agricultural areas is vital to preserving their character and reducing vulnerability to such disasters.

    Moreover, grazing practices can assist in managing low vegetation, reducing the risk of future fires. As efforts to restore Tepak farm continue, the focus will remain on sustainable agricultural practices to safeguard against future threats.

  • Limassol Police Probe Unnatural Death of Young Man

    Limassol Police Probe Unnatural Death of Young Man

    unnatural death — Limassol police are investigating the unnatural death of a 20-year-old man who died shortly after being taken to a local clinic. The incident unfolded on Thursday evening when the young man was transported to a Gesy-operated facility, where he succumbed to his condition around midnight.

    Authorities reported that the individual exhibited no externally visible signs of injury, prompting further inquiries into the circumstances surrounding his death. Initial tests conducted revealed traces of cannabis in his system.

    According to police, he had been staying at a holiday home in the Limassol district along with five others prior to his passing. The details surrounding the events leading up to his death remain unclear, as investigations are still ongoing.

    The specific cause of death is expected to be determined later on Friday, with state pathologists Angeliki Papetta and Orthodoxos Orthodoxou set to conduct an examination. Their findings will be crucial in understanding the factors that led to this tragic incident.

  • 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.

  • Paphos — Man Transferred to Psychiatric Hospital After Alleged Killing of Wife in Paphos

    Paphos — Man Transferred to Psychiatric Hospital After Alleged Killing of Wife in Paphos

    paphos — paphos — A 53-year-old man has been transferred to Athalassa Psychiatric Hospital after being suspected of killing his wife, 34-year-old Irini Papakitsa, in their Chloraka home last Sunday. Following a psychiatric evaluation conducted by a government psychiatrist, it was determined that hospitalisation was necessary for the suspect.

    • As the community comes together to support the grieving family, the focus remains on the tragic loss of Irini Papakitsa and the impact of this incident on her surviving son.

    The police have confirmed that the man will remain in the psychiatric facility until he is deemed competent to participate in judicial proceedings regarding the case. This incident has raised concerns within the community about domestic violence and its devastating effects.

    Paphos: Tragic Loss of Irini Papakitsa

    Irini Papakitsa, a Ukrainian national who held Greek citizenship, is mourned by her family and friends. Her funeral is scheduled for today at 4:00 PM, taking place at the Panagia Chrysoaimatoussa Church in Chloraka. The loss of such a young life has sent shockwaves through the local community.

    Surviving Son’s Ordeal

    In a horrifying twist, Irini’s 14-year-old son survived the violent incident but was reportedly injured during the attack. Family members have expressed their concern for the boy’s well-being and have requested donations in lieu of funeral wreaths to support him during this difficult time.

    A Community in Mourning

    The incident has sparked discussions on the prevalence of domestic violence and the urgent need for intervention and support systems. Community leaders are calling for increased awareness and resources to protect vulnerable individuals and prevent such tragedies from occurring in the future.

    As the community comes together to support the grieving family, the focus remains on the tragic loss of Irini Papakitsa and the impact of this incident on her surviving son.

  • 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.

  • Geolocator — Geolocator Aids Arrest in Limassol Theft Case

    Geolocator — Geolocator Aids Arrest in Limassol Theft Case

    geolocator — A geolocator has played a crucial role in the arrest of a 45-year-old man for theft of building materials in Limassol. Police announced the arrest on Friday following a complaint from a construction company owner regarding the loss of materials valued at €2,850.

    The incident occurred at a residence undergoing renovation in the Kato Polemidia area. The construction company’s owner reported the materials missing, prompting a swift response from local authorities.

    What made this case particularly compelling was the use of a geolocation device that had been secretly attached to the stolen items. This technology tracked the whereabouts of the materials, leading police to their location in Limassol.

    Upon receiving the geolocation data, officers conducted a search and successfully recovered a substantial quantity of stolen building materials. Some of these items were still equipped with the geolocation device, providing vital evidence for the case.

    The arrested individual now faces charges of theft as well as illegal possession of property. Limassol police have confirmed that investigations are ongoing to ascertain the full extent of the theft and to determine whether additional individuals may be involved.

  • Heat warning: Met Department Warns of Extreme Heat on Friday

    Heat warning: Met Department Warns of Extreme Heat on Friday

    heat warning — The Met Department has issued a yellow heat warning for extreme maximum temperatures set to impact the region on Friday, 22 August 2025. Effective from 12:00 noon until 17:00, this warning highlights that inland areas could reach a scorching 41°C.

    Heat warning: Temperature Projections and Regional Differences

    According to the Met Department, while the interior regions brace for intense heat, mountain areas are expected to be slightly cooler at around 32°C. Coastal conditions will vary based on specific locations, reflecting the diverse climate across different terrains.

    Current Weather Patterns

    A seasonal low pressure system is influencing local weather, resulting in predominantly clear skies with occasional low cloud cover. Winds are forecasted to begin as light and variable at 3 Beaufort, shifting to predominantly southwesterly to northwesterly at 3-4 Beaufort strength. Coastal areas may experience temporarily moderate to strong winds, reaching 4-5 Beaufort.

    Daily Temperature Expectations

    For today, the maximum temperatures are projected to hit 41°C inland. Coastal areas are expected to see temperatures around 35°C in the southeastern, southern, and northern regions, while western and southwestern coastal areas, along with higher mountain zones, will hover around 32°C.

    Overnight Conditions and Weekend Outlook

    As night falls, the weather will remain mostly clear, although there may be localised low cloud increases. Thin fog or mist is anticipated late at night and during the early morning, particularly affecting the southern and eastern regions. Winds will continue in a southwesterly to northwesterly direction, becoming locally variable at a strength of 3 Beaufort, with sea conditions remaining smooth to slight. Minimum temperatures are expected to drop to 23°C inland, 24°C along coastal areas, and 21°C in the mountainous regions.

    Looking Ahead

    As the weekend approaches, temperatures are forecasted to stay above seasonal norms on Saturday, but a gradual cooling trend is expected to begin on Sunday. By Monday, temperatures are anticipated to align more closely with the seasonal average.

  • 20-Year-Old Man Dies Suddenly at Friends’ Home in Limassol

    20-Year-Old Man Dies Suddenly at Friends’ Home in Limassol

    A 20-year-old man died suddenly at a friend’s residence in Limassol on Thursday evening, 21 August, prompting an investigation into the circumstances surrounding his unexpected death.

    • A 20-year-old man died suddenly at a friend's residence in Limassol on Thursday evening, 21 August, prompting an investigation into the circumstances surrounding his unexpected death.

    According to statements from the police, the young man lost consciousness while visiting friends, which led to an immediate call for an ambulance. Paramedics arrived swiftly and transported him to Limassol General Hospital, but medical staff pronounced him dead upon arrival.

    Officers were dispatched to the scene to carry out examinations. After initial assessments, they have ruled out any possibility of foul play regarding the death. The police are now focusing on determining the medical cause of the young man’s sudden collapse and subsequent passing at the residential property.

    As is standard procedure in such cases, the police have classified this incident as an unnatural death investigation since it involved an unexpected demise outside of a medical facility. To ascertain the exact cause of death, a mandatory post-mortem examination is scheduled to take place today.

  • Paramotor crash: Tragic Paraglider Crash Claims Life of 31-Year-Old in Larnaca

    Paramotor crash: Tragic Paraglider Crash Claims Life of 31-Year-Old in Larnaca

    paramotor crash — In a tragic turn of events, a 31-year-old man, Antonis Kourras, lost his life in a paramotor crash near Kiti, Larnaca, yesterday morning. The accident unfolded around 8:30 AM as Kourras was flying at low altitude over the sea with a friend, who was piloting a second paramotor.

    • The exact cause of death will be established through a post-mortem examination, which will provide further insight into the events of that fateful morning.

    Kourras, a resident of Anagyia village in Nicosia, had ventured to the Softades area with his companion to launch their engine-powered paragliders for a morning flight. Witnesses reported that both aircraft were navigating the coastal region when, under circumstances that are still being investigated, Kourras’s paramotor struck rocks approximately five metres from the shoreline.

    The impact was severe, resulting in Kourras’s immediate death. An ambulance was promptly summoned to the scene and transported him to Larnaca General Hospital, where his death was sadly confirmed by medical personnel.

    Local authorities, including members of the Kiti Police Station, responded quickly to the incident. They were joined by officials from the Committee on Aircraft Accidents and Incidents, who will conduct a thorough examination of the fatal paramotor. This committee aims to determine whether mechanical failure or other factors contributed to the crash.

    As part of the ongoing investigation, Kiti Police are expected to take a statement from Kourras’s flying companion once he is in a position to provide testimony. Officers will seek to ascertain details about the paragliders’ origins and whether the friend observed anything that could clarify the circumstances surrounding this tragic accident.

    The exact cause of death will be established through a post-mortem examination, which will provide further insight into the events of that fateful morning.