MVP

Tag: community concerns

  • Theft — Police Investigate Possible Theft of Cross During Epiphany Ceremony in Limassol

    Theft — Police Investigate Possible Theft of Cross During Epiphany Ceremony in Limassol

    A possible theft of the cross during the Epiphany ceremony has prompted police investigation in Limassol, creating a stir among the local community.

    Photo: in-cyprus.philenews.com

    • A possible theft of the cross during the Epiphany ceremony has prompted police investigation in Limassol, creating a stir among the local community.

    This morning, the traditional blessing of the waters took place at the Old Port of Limassol, a highlight of the Epiphany celebrations. However, moments after the ceremony concluded, confusion arose when it was discovered that the wooden cross, which is typically returned to the priest, had not been handed back by the individual who retrieved it.

    Witnesses reported that during the third attempt to throw the cross into the sea, an unknown man managed to retrieve it from a significant distance. Instead of returning the cross, he left the area, raising suspicions among attendees.

    Local authorities have since been alerted to the situation, and investigations are underway. Police are examining witness statements and reviewing surveillance footage from the vicinity to gather more information about the incident.

    The cross is a symbol of faith and tradition, making its absence particularly concerning for the community. As the investigation unfolds, residents remain hopeful that the cross will be recovered and returned to its rightful place.

  • Prisoner dies — Prisoner Dies Following Emergency Transfer to Nicosia General Hospital

    Prisoner dies — Prisoner Dies Following Emergency Transfer to Nicosia General Hospital

    prisoner dies — prisoner dies — A prisoner has tragically died after being transferred from Central Prisons to Nicosia General Hospital. The incident occurred on Saturday evening when the 45-year-old inmate began to feel unwell around 8:50 PM.

    • The authorities have confirmed that a statutory post-mortem examination is scheduled to take place tomorrow. This will provide further insights into the cause of death.
    • The Police have initiated an investigation into this sudden death, seeking to understand the circumstances surrounding the inmate’s health decline and subsequent transfer.

    Upon his arrival at the hospital, he exhibited serious cardiac and pulmonary issues. Despite the immediate medical attention provided by the hospital staff, he unfortunately passed away just minutes after being admitted.

    The authorities have confirmed that a statutory post-mortem examination is scheduled to take place tomorrow. This will provide further insights into the cause of death.

    The Police have initiated an investigation into this sudden death, seeking to understand the circumstances surrounding the inmate’s health decline and subsequent transfer.

  • No Lives at Risk Despite Cancellation of Neonatal ICU Contract

    No Lives at Risk Despite Cancellation of Neonatal ICU Contract

    neonatal icu — neonatal icu — No lives are at risk as a result of the cancellation of a contract for the new neonatal intensive care unit at the Makarios children’s hospital in Nicosia, according to Charalambos Charilaou, spokesman for the state health services organisation (Okypy).

    • As the community awaits further developments, the focus remains on ensuring the safety and well-being of the most vulnerable patients in the neonatal unit.

    Neonatal icu: Contract Cancellation Explained

    On Saturday, Charilaou clarified that the decision to cancel the contract was necessary due to its problematic nature and deadlock. Speaking to the Cyprus News Agency, he stated, “we did what we had to do” and emphasized that the existing neonatal unit is well-equipped and staffed, highlighting its capability despite spatial limitations.

    Future Plans for the Unit

    Charilaou noted that the contract was terminated with the contractor’s consent, eliminating potential legal complications. Okypy has successfully recovered €1.3 million worth of guarantees and is optimistic about finding a new contractor. The hope is to complete the new building by September 2027, with the new contract mirroring the original value of €6.4 million.

    Concerns from the Community

    Despite official assurances, local advocacy groups have expressed their dissatisfaction. The miracle babies association described Okypy’s timeline for the new unit as “an illusory dream for premature babies and their families.”

    Political Reactions

    Criticism has also emerged from several MPs. Disy MP Savia Orfanidou expressed her disappointment about the lack of progress, while Akel MP Nikos Kettiros pointed out that the construction site has seen minimal activity, noting, “a fence was placed, and a couple of holes drilled in the ground.”

    Kettiros condemned the government’s handling of the situation, accusing them of “peddling promises and hot air.” Diko MP Chrysanthos Savvides raised alarm about the existing neonatal intensive care unit operating at 150 per cent capacity, stating, “You realise that this puts at risk the lives of newborns.”

    As the community awaits further developments, the focus remains on ensuring the safety and well-being of the most vulnerable patients in the neonatal unit.

  • Man Injured by Shotgun Fire in Hunting Area

    Man Injured by Shotgun Fire in Hunting Area

    shotgun — A 44-year-old man was shot by a shotgun while working in a hunting area on Sunday afternoon. The incident occurred shortly before 5:00 PM and has raised concerns about safety practices in open hunting zones.

    Shotgun: Details of the Shooting Incident

    According to initial reports, the victim arrived at the Pera Chorio Nisou Police Station to report the incident. He stated that he had been shot in the leg from approximately 30 metres away by a hunter.

    Medical Response and Treatment

    Following the incident, the man was promptly transported to Nicosia General Hospital, where he is receiving treatment for his injuries. The severity of his condition has not been disclosed, but authorities are monitoring his recovery.

    Hunter Comes Forward

    The hunter involved in the incident also presented himself at the Pera Chorio Nisou Police Station shortly after the shooting. Preliminary investigations suggest that the shooting occurred in an area that is open for hunting.

    Community Concerns

    This incident has sparked discussions within the community regarding hunting safety and regulations. Local residents are expressing their concerns about the risks associated with hunting near populated areas and the need for stricter safety measures.

  • Larnaca Police Target Street Racing with Seizure of 72 Vehicles

    Larnaca Police Target Street Racing with Seizure of 72 Vehicles

    Police in Larnaca are intensifying their efforts against street racing, a growing issue that has transformed Spyrou Kyprianou Avenue into a late-night race track.

    Photo: in-cyprus.philenews.com

    • Police in Larnaca are intensifying their efforts against street racing, a growing issue that has transformed Spyrou Kyprianou Avenue into a late-night race track.

    This busy road, which connects the city to its port, has become a notorious spot for illegal racing activities, despite being equipped with more traffic cameras than any other avenue in the region. The camera system was intended to curb speeding and dangerous driving, yet it has failed to deter night-time racers and motorbike stunts.

    Photo: in-cyprus.philenews.com

    Street racing: Ongoing Crackdown

    Since the start of 2025, the Larnaca Traffic Department has conducted eight night-time operations targeting Spyrou Kyprianou Avenue and surrounding areas. In these efforts, police have confiscated a total of 72 vehicles, with 18 of them sent to the Department of Road Transport for emergency inspections due to visible modifications.

    “Vehicles were taken to the Larnaca Traffic Police, where the prescribed procedures were followed against offending drivers, either through out-of-court settlements or criminal prosecution,” a police spokesperson stated. The department emphasised that patrols and campaigns are ongoing, aiming to reduce noise disturbances for local residents and minimise the risk of collisions.

    Evading Detection

    Many offenders have been attempting to evade detection by removing licence plates from their high-powered motorcycles and modified cars, complicating enforcement efforts. This has necessitated large-scale operations by the traffic police, who are committed to tackling the issue head-on.

    Future Measures and Community Concerns

    Despite the existing fixed speed cameras, authorities recognise that the issue persists. The Central Traffic Problems Resolution Body has been alerted to the ongoing situation, leading to approved proposals for an additional fixed camera and the elevation of two pedestrian crossings. This is aimed at slowing down vehicles and enhancing safety in the area. Mobile cameras are also deployed periodically to further address the problem.

    Spyrou Kyprianou Avenue stretches approximately two kilometres, linking major roads in Larnaca, Aradippou, and Livadia with the port area. While it experiences heavy traffic during the day, the evenings have become synonymous with reckless racing, prompting repeated complaints from residents who are affected by the noise and danger associated with these activities.

  • Legality of Limassol’s Two-Dog Rule Under Scrutiny

    Legality of Limassol’s Two-Dog Rule Under Scrutiny

    The legality of Limassol’s two-dog rule is now being questioned following a statement from the top veterinary official, indicating a lack of clear legal framework for such a regulation.

    • The legality of Limassol's two-dog rule is now being questioned following a statement from the top veterinary official, indicating a lack of clear legal framework for such a regulation.
    • As the community awaits the ombudswoman’s report, the future of many families’ pets remains uncertain, and the potential for unrest looms large in Limassol.

    Two-dog rule: Controversial Regulation Faces Backlash

    In the Amathus area of Limassol, a new rule that limits households to two dogs has sparked significant debate. Approved by the municipal council, the regulation is scheduled for enforcement starting September 1. However, it has come under fire due to concerns about its legal standing and potential impact on pet owners.

    Veterinary Director Weighs In

    Christodoulos Pippis, the director of veterinary services at the agriculture ministry, expressed his concerns during an interview with the Cyprus Mail. He stated, “There is no clear legal framework in place. To my knowledge, nothing explicitly allows or forbids this measure.” His comments highlight the uncertainty surrounding the council’s authority to impose such restrictions on pet ownership.

    Voices of Concern from Residents

    Residents in Ayios Tychonas, particularly those who own more than two dogs, have voiced their frustrations. Aggeliki, a local mother of three, explained, “Our dogs are not a nuisance. They are part of our family. The idea that we should now give two away is just cruel. It would feel like a death, a great loss for them.”

    Many pet owners feel the regulation is not just unfair, but that it could also lead to unnecessary suffering for their beloved pets. A retired engineer named Vasilis shared his perspective, questioning the logic behind the rule: “They’ve already suffered once. Why should they suffer again because of a vague council rule that isn’t even legal?”

    Mayor Defends the Measure

    Amathus mayor Kyriakos Xydias has defended the decision to implement the two-dog rule, citing a high volume of complaints from residents. He stated, “It is not possible in residential areas to have an uncontrolled number of animals, especially dogs.” The mayor acknowledged the challenges of managing multiple dogs in apartment buildings, which can lead to disturbances.

    Concerns Over Enforcement and Compliance

    Despite the mayor’s assertions, questions remain about the enforcement of the new regulation. Xydias mentioned that the rule applies strictly to dogs and does not extend to other pets, such as cats, which he described as “more independent”. The mayor’s comments raise further questions about the fairness of targeting dog owners while other animal owners may face no such restrictions.

    Additionally, there is concern about how local shelters will manage an influx of surrendered pets should the regulation be enforced. Xydias noted, “If someone has four dogs and they are not registered, they are already illegal.” This statement has prompted residents to worry about the potential consequences for those who do not comply.

    Community Action and Legal Review

    The backlash against the two-dog rule has led to a formal complaint being lodged with the Cyprus ombudswoman. Residents are calling for a thorough review of the rule’s legality and its compliance with both Cypriot law and EU animal welfare standards. They argue that the absence of transitional measures could force many families to surrender their pets, increasing the number of strays and placing additional strain on shelters.

    Animal Welfare Advocates Speak Out

    Lia Stylianou, a former president of Dog Rescue Valley, voiced her disapproval of the regulation, describing it as “pointless” and “ineffective”. She stated, “The stray problem won’t be solved by restricting the number of pets a person can keep at home. How will reducing owned animals help reduce stray ones? It’s absurd.”

    Stylianou believes that the focus should shift to enforcing existing laws and improving conditions at shelters rather than punishing responsible pet owners. She highlighted the inconsistency in enforcement, noting that her own dogs are well cared for, while she has a neighbour whose single dog causes disturbances.

    Legal Recourse for Pet Owners

    Pippis emphasised that animal abandonment is prohibited by law, suggesting that residents have the right to challenge the municipal council’s decision in court if they believe it contravenes their rights. He stated, “If a municipal council issues a decision, the public has the right to challenge it in court, within the framework of the Constitution.”

    Awaiting the Ombudswoman’s Decision

    Maria Stylianou Lottides, the ombudswoman, confirmed that her office is reviewing the measure and that they will intervene if issues relating to human rights or equal treatment arise. The residents’ concerns, coupled with the veterinary director’s comments, suggest that this issue is far from settled.

    Many locals believe that the two-dog rule may infringe upon the Dog Law of 2002, which does not impose limits on the number of pets per household. They also point to the Five Freedoms of animal welfare, which advocate for an animal’s freedom from pain, fear, and emotional distress.

    As the community awaits the ombudswoman’s report, the future of many families’ pets remains uncertain, and the potential for unrest looms large in Limassol.