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  • Polis to See Major Developments Worth €100 Million in 2024

    Polis to See Major Developments Worth €100 Million in 2024

    major developments — Polis Chrysochous mayor Yiotis Papachristofi recently announced that the town will witness major developments valued at a minimum of €100 million next year. This ambitious plan includes a series of transformative projects aimed at enhancing infrastructure and boosting local economic growth.

    Major developments: Key Projects on the Horizon

    Among the key initiatives outlined by Mayor Papachristofi are the expansion of the Latchi port and the construction of a new sewerage system. Additionally, there will be renovations to both the centres of Polis Chrysochous and the nearby village of Prodromi, as well as improvements to local archaeological sites. These developments are part of a broader strategy to rejuvenate the area and create a more appealing environment for residents and visitors alike.

    Preparation for Change

    The mayor emphasised that the municipality has engaged in “intensive preparation work in previous years” to set the stage for these projects. He believes that the collective efforts will soon position Polis Chrysochous at the forefront of development across the island. “With larger projects like the new road connecting Polis Chrysochous and Paphos, the area will be at the epicentre of the island’s development,” Papachristofi stated.

    Aiming to Retain Young Residents

    One of the mayor’s primary goals is to counter the trend of young people leaving the area for better opportunities elsewhere in Cyprus or abroad. He noted, “Our goal is for Polis Chrysochous and the surrounding area to have a proper image with quality infrastructure, so that we can attract people and develop in terms of tourism.” By improving local amenities and creating jobs, the municipality aims to build a vibrant community where young residents can thrive.

    Broader Economic Impact

    The planned developments are not just about aesthetics; they are intended to have a far-reaching impact on various sectors. Papachristofi remarked that these initiatives “will help all sectors,” including tourism, agriculture, and livestock. By fostering a better environment for tourism, local farmers and livestock producers will also benefit as they will have enhanced opportunities to sell their products.

    Road Construction Tender Announced

    Earlier this month, the government issued a new tender for the first phase of the road connecting Paphos and Polis Chrysochous. This initial phase will link the village of Ayia Marinouda, located just outside Paphos, with the village of Stroumbi, situated roughly halfway between the two endpoints. The total distance for this segment is approximately 15.5 kilometres.

    Details on Road Specifications and Funding

    The proposed road will initially feature two lanes of traffic along with a crawler lane where necessary. The government has stated that while the road will not be a dual carriageway at the outset, there is potential for future expansion. The estimated cost for this phase of construction is around €90.2 million, excluding value added tax, with a projected completion timeline of 30 months.

    Challenges and Opportunities Ahead

    Mayor Papachristofi acknowledged the challenges ahead, particularly following the previous cancellation of a contract with the Greek construction company Intrakat last year. If a new bidder is selected, construction will resume from where it left off, making it imperative to find a suitable contractor to ensure timely progress on the road project.

    Community Engagement and Support

    The mayor is keen to engage the community throughout this development process, seeking input and support from local residents. He believes that fostering a sense of ownership among community members will be vital for the success of these initiatives. “We want to ensure that these developments reflect the needs and desires of our residents,” he added.

    Looking Forward

    As Polis Chrysochous prepares for these significant changes, the mayor’s vision of a revitalised town with improved infrastructure and economic opportunities is becoming clearer. The forthcoming projects are expected not only to enhance the local landscape but also to improve the quality of life for residents and attract visitors to the area. With strategic planning and community involvement, the town aims to emerge as a thriving hub within Cyprus.

  • Money laundering — Authorities Seize €63.2 Million in Major Money Laundering Crackdown

    Money laundering — Authorities Seize €63.2 Million in Major Money Laundering Crackdown

    Authorities seized assets worth €63.2 million in 2024 as part of a significant money laundering crackdown, a remarkable increase from approximately €1 million in 2023, according to the latest data from the anti-money laundering unit.

    • Following successful prosecutions, confiscation orders transferring ownership of frozen assets to the state totalled €372,695 for domestic cases and £17,993 for foreign requests.
    • A new European Anti-Money Laundering Authority (AMLA) will be established to oversee the coordination of national agencies, ensuring consistent implementation of these rules.

    Money laundering: Domestic and International Efforts Yield Results

    The Unit for Combating Money Laundering (MOKAS), operating under the Attorney General’s office, played a crucial role in these operations. This year, MOKAS froze €8.5 million linked to domestic criminal investigations, while €54.7 million was restrained following requests from foreign jurisdictions.

    Targeted Actions Against Luxury Assets

    In a concerted effort to combat organised crime, authorities executed court orders resulting in the seizure of €1.91 million in cash, alongside $6,163. They also confiscated 25 properties valued at €5.075 million and 30 motor vehicles worth €430,000. Additional seizures included a boat valued at €9,500, 119 jewellery items worth approximately €1 million, and various luxury goods.

    Increased Requests Highlight Growing Collaboration

    In 2024, police requests to MOKAS surged by 36%, resulting in 129 cases, while requests from the customs department skyrocketed by 90%, reaching 38 cases. This surge reflects a growing collaboration among different law enforcement agencies.

    International Cooperation Leads to Major Asset Restraints

    Significant asset restraints were achieved through international judicial cooperation, totalling €54.7 million. Foreign court orders registered in Cyprus facilitated the seizure of €2.44 million, $4.75 million, and £1,360 in various currencies, alongside 14 properties valued at €6.63 million and six vehicles worth €660,000. Notably, authorities froze an investment portfolio worth $45 million, representing the largest single asset seizure recorded during this period.

    Permanent Confiscation of Assets

    Following successful prosecutions, confiscation orders transferring ownership of frozen assets to the state totalled €372,695 for domestic cases and £17,993 for foreign requests.

    New EU Regulations Set to Impact the Financial Landscape

    The landscape of anti-money laundering efforts is set to change further with new European Union regulations coming into effect in 2027. These regulations will extend compliance requirements to cryptocurrency providers, professional football clubs and agents, crowdfunding intermediaries, and investment migration service providers. The EU package aims to strengthen due diligence requirements, beneficial ownership regulations, and will impose a €10,000 cash payment limit across the Union territory.

    A new European Anti-Money Laundering Authority (AMLA) will be established to oversee the coordination of national agencies, ensuring consistent implementation of these rules.

  • Intoxicated man — Intoxicated Man Arrested with Knife in Paphos Standoff

    Intoxicated man — Intoxicated Man Arrested with Knife in Paphos Standoff

    Paphos police arrested an intoxicated man Friday evening following reports of a knife-wielding individual in Geroskipou’s Agia Paraskevi Square.

    • Paphos police arrested an intoxicated man Friday evening following reports of a knife-wielding individual in Geroskipou's Agia Paraskevi Square.

    Authorities received alarming calls around 20:30 regarding a man displaying erratic behaviour and carrying a knife. Upon arrival, officers located the suspect and conducted a check, discovering that he was heavily intoxicated.

    Witnesses reported that the man was shouting and causing a disturbance, which raised concerns among the public. When approached by the police, he refused to provide identification and continued to act aggressively.

    Given the circumstances, officers decided to arrest him for public intoxication and causing a disturbance in a public space. The suspect’s actions not only posed a potential threat to himself but also to those around him in the busy square.

    In light of the incident, the police have taken further steps to ensure community safety. The suspect was detained for identification verification, and authorities are now investigating the case at the Central Paphos Police Station. Thankfully, no injuries were reported during this tense situation, and the matter was resolved without escalation.

  • Teen Arrested for Attempted Shop Robbery in Limassol

    Teen Arrested for Attempted Shop Robbery in Limassol

    shop robbery — A 19-year-old was arrested for attempting to rob a shop in Limassol, police reported on Saturday.

    • shop robbery — A 19-year-old was arrested for attempting to rob a shop in Limassol, police reported on Saturday.
    • The police have confirmed that their investigation is ongoing, as they gather more details about the events leading up to the attempted robbery.

    Shortly after midnight, officers received a call about the incident and quickly arrived at the scene to find the teenager still inside the shop. Upon questioning, he reportedly confessed to entering the premises with the intention of stealing items.

    A search of his bag revealed various tobacco products, including electronic cigarettes, a pack of cigarettes, and packets of tobacco. The initial investigation indicated that these items had been taken from the shop.

    The police have confirmed that their investigation is ongoing, as they gather more details about the events leading up to the attempted robbery.

  • Cabinet changes — Cabinet Changes on the Horizon as President Christodoulides Prepares for September Reshuffle

    Cabinet changes — Cabinet Changes on the Horizon as President Christodoulides Prepares for September Reshuffle

    President Christodoulides is expected to announce cabinet changes in September, with strategic decisions set to unfold before his trip to the UN General Assembly later in the month. Sources indicate that the president has been contemplating adjustments to his government team for several months, maintaining a level of confidentiality even from senior advisors.

    As part of the reshuffle process, Christodoulides plans to gather all cabinet members at the presidential retreat in Troodos in early September. This extended review session will focus on evaluating government performance, assessing achievements, and presenting future targets. This all-day meeting aligns with established practices for a comprehensive evaluation of government operations.

    The recent forest fires in Limassol, which resulted in tragic loss of life, have significantly influenced the timeline and nature of the planned cabinet changes. Public criticism aimed at certain ministers for their response to the crisis has made the president reconsider his approach. Sources reveal that Christodoulides opted against immediate changes to avoid the perception of reacting solely to public pressure.

    In subsequent cabinet meetings, the atmosphere shifted from initial tension to a focus on implementing fire response measures, rather than addressing personnel accountability. While initial discussions linked cabinet changes to the upcoming parliamentary elections in May 2026, it appears the president is now focused on establishing a government framework that extends towards 2028.

    Government insiders expect selective rather than sweeping alterations within the cabinet. Most current ministers are likely to retain their positions, as some have demonstrated effectiveness while others have struggled to meet expectations. All cabinet members have surpassed the 18-month tenure threshold, with many serving around two and a half years since the government’s inception. Despite public discourse surrounding ministerial pensions, these financial considerations do not appear to significantly influence the reshuffle deliberations.

    As part of the upcoming changes, three commissioner roles will require new appointments in October: Law, Children’s Rights, and Personal Data Protection. These selections will occur independently of any cabinet reshuffle, with the president expected to announce these appointments in line with the current qualifications of office holders.

    This timeline will provide new ministers ample preparation time for the traditional parliamentary budget presentations, should the anticipated cabinet changes take place ahead of the UN General Assembly trip.

  • Cyprus Considers New Access Road to Paphos Airport Amid US Military Recommendations

    Cyprus Considers New Access Road to Paphos Airport Amid US Military Recommendations

    paphos airport — paphos airport — Cyprus is examining proposals for a second road access to Paphos International Airport and the Andreas Papandreou airbase following recommendations from the United States, marking a significant shift in prioritising national security over environmental concerns.

    The Defence Ministry has begun discussions with relevant authorities after receiving the US proposal, which deems the alternative route crucial for operational adequacy and emergency access to the military facility. A formal proposal is expected to be submitted to the Council of Ministers to advance the necessary procedures.

    Paphos airport: Proposed Coastal Route’s Environmental Challenges

    The envisioned coastal road would link Paphos International Airport with the tourist area of Paphos-Geroskipou, traversing the mouth of the Ezousas River within the Natura 2000 Special Protection Area that encompasses the estuaries of the Ezousas, Xeros, and Diarizos rivers.

    Environmental authorities have long opposed any road construction in this region, citing potential severe impacts on local ecosystems. The latest Special Ecological Assessment Report from June 2023 warned that the coastal road would lead to “serious, negative and irreversible impacts” on various species and habitats protected under EU regulations.

    Decades of Environmental Opposition

    For over twenty years, the Environmental Authority has consistently rejected road construction proposals, with studies conducted in 2005, 2009, 2016, 2017, 2022, and 2023 all highlighting significant threats to endangered sea turtle species and various wild bird populations. Officials argue that enhancing existing road infrastructure presents a more environmentally sound alternative.

    US Military’s Role in Infrastructure Planning

    The push for the new road access stems from recommendations by the 435th Contingency Response Squadron of the US Air Force, which is stationed in Germany. After two inspection visits to Cyprus, the unit outlined specific technical and operational proposals as part of an airbase upgrade programme.

    Reports indicate that the Andreas Papandreou airbase has begun to serve humanitarian missions, civilian evacuations, and as a transit hub. The US military’s involvement in planning includes runway extensions, hangar construction, and the development of a modern communications centre.

    Funding and Strategic Direction

    During President Christodoulides’s official visit to Washington on 30 October 2024, US financial support for the infrastructure project was confirmed, with commitments reportedly remaining intact following the recent presidential election.

    The Defence Ministry, in coordination with US military experts, is looking to weave this project into a broader dual-use infrastructure strategy that combines military and civilian applications, reflecting a new emphasis on national security in decision-making.

  • Fight — Two Injured in Fight at Larnaca Block of Flats

    Fight — Two Injured in Fight at Larnaca Block of Flats

    Two men were injured in a fight that broke out in a block of flats late on Friday night, according to police reports. Officers received a call around 11pm, indicating that three residents of the building were involved in an altercation.

    • The police are actively investigating the circumstances surrounding the fight, with no further details released at this time.

    Upon arrival, police discovered that a 26-year-old man had been attacked by two other individuals. Emergency services transported him to Larnaca General Hospital, where medical staff identified a shoulder injury likely caused by a sharp object.

    While he remains in hospital, doctors have confirmed that his condition is stable, and he is out of danger. In a related incident, a 66-year-old man who attempted to intervene in the fight sustained a minor hand injury. He was also taken to the same hospital, treated, and subsequently discharged.

    The police are actively investigating the circumstances surrounding the fight, with no further details released at this time.

  • Cyprus Gears Up for Council of Europe Presidency Amid Business Developments

    Cyprus Gears Up for Council of Europe Presidency Amid Business Developments

    The focus on tourism in Cyprus intensifies as the Deputy Ministry of Tourism has initiated a tender for hotel accommodations in Nicosia. This move is aimed at preparing for the influx of delegates expected during Cyprus’ presidency of the Council of Europe, which will run from January to June 2026, featuring over 250 meetings across the island.

    The tender, recently published on the Electronic Procurement System, outlines an estimated cost of €165,000 excluding VAT for 32,896 overnight stays. If additional options are included, the total estimated expenditure could rise to €195,000. Bids for this accommodation are open until September 3, 2025, at 11 a.m. The announcement was confirmed by Deputy Minister for European Affairs Marilena Rauna at the Cyprus Hoteliers Association (Pasyxe) general assembly.

    In a separate but significant development, Israeli-owned BrainRocket, a major employer in Limassol, has decided not to relocate its operations to Spain after intervention from President Nikos Christodoulides. Earlier reports had indicated potential job losses, raising concerns among government and business officials. The company, which has been operating in Cyprus for approximately ten years and employs around 1,500 people, will transfer part of its workforce abroad while hiring an equal number of local staff.

    On the financial front, Eurobank has been actively engaging in share buybacks, acquiring 1,334,684 shares between August 11 and 14 for a total cost of €4.6 million. The bank confirmed that the repurchase aligns with its Share Repurchase Programme, initially approved during its Annual General Meeting on April 30, 2025.

    The National Bank of Greece also reported a significant share buyback, acquiring 300,000 shares between August 7 and August 14, with a total expenditure of €3.9 million. This transaction followed approvals from its annual general meeting and the European Central Bank’s Single Supervisory Mechanism.

    Additionally, the German Medical Institute (GMI) is at the forefront of a transformative healthcare project known as Agora 3.0, aimed at establishing Cyprus’s first fully digitalised hospital. Chief Scientist Demetris Skourides and Medical Director Professor Konstantinos Zamboglou outlined the initiative’s vision during a meeting in Limassol. The project includes the creation of an AI Department, which will serve as a centre for testing and developing AI technologies in medical diagnosis.

    Meanwhile, ASBISc Enterprises Plc has reported a remarkable increase in estimated consolidated revenues for July 2025, amounting to approximately $281 million—a 26% rise compared to July 2024. This growth highlights the ongoing resilience and expansion of the technology sector on the island.

    In the tourism sector, Cyprus continues to seek ways to extend its tourist season beyond the summer months. This strategy aims to boost revenue and stabilise employment in the industry, reflecting a broader trend as countries like Greece also plan to keep hotels operational throughout autumn and winter. TUI AG has confirmed plans to maintain extended operations in Greece and Turkey, responding to high demand.

    Lastly, the Cyprus Stock Exchange has announced the continued suspension of trading for ZREES Fraction Plc shares on the Emerging Companies Market, extending until October 27, 2025. This suspension is due to the company’s non-compliance with requirements regarding its nominated advisor and failure to submit financial reports.

  • Concerns Mount Over US Warplane Activity in Cypriot Airspace

    Concerns Mount Over US Warplane Activity in Cypriot Airspace

    us warplane — Concerns have been raised regarding the ‘unusual movements’ of a US warplane in Cypriot airspace. The aircraft, a Boeing C-17 belonging to the United States Air Force, was observed taking off from Paphos airport on Tuesday, shortly before landing at Tel Aviv’s Ben Gurion airport less than an hour later.

    A coalition of non-governmental organisations in Cyprus, including activist group Afoa and pro-Palestine entities such as BDS Cyprus, Genocide-Free Cyprus, and United for Palestine Cyprus, has alleged that the island is being used as a stopover point for transporting unknown cargo and personnel from the US Al Udeid airbase in Qatar to Israel.

    The aircraft has been seen making multiple trips between Al Udeid and Israel, with its transponder turned off on several occasions. This has left observers unable to track its exact location, raising suspicions about its operations. One such incident led the organisations to question whether the plane actually landed in Paphos or diverted to the nearby Mari naval base, although this is deemed unlikely as the C-17 cannot land at Mari.

    After reappearing on radar an hour later, the C-17 was again recorded en route to Israel. Following its departure from Israel, flight data suggested the aircraft conducted what the groups referred to as a “phantom landing” in Cyprus. This tactic, they claim, involved flying at low altitude near an airport to create the illusion of landing, while actually maintaining a direct flight path between the US base and Israel.

    The organisations noted that the altitude readings of the C-17 never dropped to zero, further indicating that it did not land in Paphos but merely passed over the region. They expressed scepticism regarding the nature of the flights, asserting that they were “almost certainly not related to humanitarian aid.” They argued that a US military cargo aircraft would not undertake such clandestine journeys if its purpose were truly humanitarian.

    The cloak of secrecy surrounding the C-17’s movements has led these groups to conclude that military aid is being transported through Cypriot facilities. They contend that by allowing such flights and enabling operations from the island to assist the US and Israel, the Cypriot government has effectively compromised its sovereignty, transforming the island into an unwitting accomplice in alleged acts of violence.

    In their statement, they claimed, “by permitting such flights and enabling operations from the island to aid the US and Israel, the Cypriot government has effectively abdicated its sovereignty, turning the island into a silent accomplice in genocide.” This assertion adds a complex layer to the geopolitical dynamics involving Cyprus, the US, and Israel, as local organisations push for transparency and accountability regarding military operations in the region.

  • International Outcry Over Israel’s E1 Settlement Plans

    International Outcry Over Israel’s E1 Settlement Plans

    Foreign ministers from various European nations, along with Australia and the UK, have condemned Israel’s new settlement plans, particularly the controversial E1 project, which threatens to significantly alter the landscape of East Jerusalem and the West Bank.

    The E1 settlement initiative, which has received backing from Israeli Finance Minister Bezalel Smotrich and was approved by a defence ministry planning commission, aims to construct new settlements east of Jerusalem. This development has raised serious concerns among international leaders, as it would effectively bisect the West Bank and hinder the establishment of a contiguous Palestinian state.

    In a joint statement released on Friday, foreign ministers from countries including Belgium, Canada, Denmark, France, Greece, and others expressed their disapproval, stating, “The decision by the Israeli higher planning committee to approve plans for settlement construction in the E1 area, east of Jerusalem, is unacceptable and a violation of international law.” They called for an immediate reversal of the decision, emphasising the potential ramifications for peace in the region.

    EU foreign chief Kaja Kallas, who also serves as the vice-president of the European Commission, joined the chorus of condemnation, reinforcing the collective stance of the international community against the E1 project. The ministers warned that this settlement plan could severely obstruct the possibility of a two-state solution, arguing that it would divide any prospective Palestinian state and limit Palestinian access to Jerusalem.

    Israel responded swiftly to the international criticism, with its Foreign Ministry dismissing the statement as an attempt to impose foreign dictates. They reiterated Israel’s historical claim to the land, stating, “The historic right of Jews to live anywhere in the Land of Israel – the birthplace of the Jewish people – is indisputable.” The ministry further contended that Israel’s actions were in accordance with international law, asserting that the Jewish people are the indigenous people of the region.

    The E1 settlement plan has been a point of contention for years, with significant international opposition. Since the 1967 Middle East war, Israel has expanded its settlements in the West Bank, resulting in approximately 700,000 Israeli settlers now residing among 2.7 million Palestinians in the area. The ongoing conflict with Hamas in Gaza has further complicated the situation, with tensions remaining high.

    As the international community watches closely, the future of the E1 project remains uncertain. The foreign ministers’ statement has highlighted a growing divide between Israel and many nations who are advocating for peace and stability in the region.