Police tackle fireworks offences, delinquency during Easter weekend

Police tackle fireworks offences, delinquency during Easter weekend

Police in Cyprus responded to various incidents over the Easter weekend, including public nuisance complaints, firework and cracker offenses, and instances of youth delinquency. They collaborated with the Fire Service to tackle fires and confiscate illegal fireworks and crackers, with no reported injuries. Several individuals were arrested for possession of fireworks and crackers, including a 19-year-old in Nicosia, a 42-year-old woman with her child, a 49-year-old man with his child in Larnaca, and a 21-year-old man in Paphos. The most significant incident occurred in Kiti village, where youths caused a disturbance with a bonfire and set off crackers towards officers and a resident’s house, prompting Fire Service intervention. Despite police efforts to secure the area, the youths returned to cause further damage before fleeing.

When appearances can be deceiving

When appearances can be deceiving

The Republic of Cyprus received positive feedback for its efforts to combat money laundering, aligning with recommendations from the Council of Europe’s Moneyval Committee. However, experts point out that the country still struggles to effectively address money laundering, with a lack of convictions for white-collar crimes. A recent incident involving a Ukrainian woman bringing in millions of euros highlights the system’s weaknesses. Despite progress, Cyprus faces significant challenges in tackling money laundering.

60 inmates to be released early under Easter pardon

60 inmates to be released early under Easter pardon

Approximately 60 inmates in Cyprus are set to be released early before Easter following a recommendation from the Attorney General and approval by the President. The Prison Directorate compiled a list of prisoners scheduled for release within two months, which was then submitted for presidential pardons. The pardons exclude individuals convicted of serious offenses such as drug trafficking, homicide, or sexual offenses, and those being released were serving short prison sentences. Both Cypriot and foreign nationals are among those being released.

Police ramp up measures ahead of Easter

Police ramp up measures ahead of Easter

Fact: The police in Cyprus are increasing their activities ahead of the Easter weekend to prevent road traffic collisions and increase road safety. They will be monitoring for offenses such as speeding, driving under the influence, not wearing seatbelts, using mobile phones while driving, and dangerous overtaking maneuvers.

10 arrested after scuffle with police released

10 arrested after scuffle with police released

Ten people arrested after scuffle with police during protest in Limassol were released on Monday. One police officer was injured with injuries to his pelvis and knee. The protesters were demonstrating over the death of 24-year-old Bangladeshi national Anisur Rahman, who died after jumping from a fifth-floor apartment during a police raid. Police accused the protesters of various offenses, including assaulting a police officer. Police do not require a warrant to enter residential properties for certain purposes.

EU Parliament adopts first EU-wide rules to combat domestic abuse

EU Parliament adopts first EU-wide rules to combat domestic abuse

The European Parliament has adopted the first EU-wide rules to combat domestic abuse and violence against women. The legislation prohibits female genital mutilation and forced marriage, as well as sets guidelines for online offences. Member states must improve reporting procedures and increase awareness of non-consensual sex as a criminal offense. One in three women in the EU has experienced violence, and 600,000 women have undergone female genital mutilation. The new rules will come into force 20 days after publication and member states have three years to implement them.

European Commission rebukes Cyprus over money laundering

European Commission rebukes Cyprus over money laundering

Fact: The EU Commission sent a reasoned opinion to Cyprus for failing to correctly incorporate EU legislation covering money laundering and financial interests.