Paphos man gets seven years for burglaries, car thefts, weapons
A 35-year-old man in Paphos was sentenced to seven years in prison for burglaries, car thefts, possession of a weapon, and explosives.
investigation
Ombudswoman, ’s investigation on Bangladeshi man’s death ‘on hold’
Anisur Rahman, a 24-year-old Bangladeshi national, died on April 10 after jumping off a fifth-floor balcony during a police raid on the Limassol apartment he was living in with 10 other individuals. The ombudswoman’s independent investigation into his death has been put on hold as the police file was denied to her and is being investigated by an independent authority following a complaint by Kisa NGO. The other individuals found living in Cyprus illegally are detained for possible witness testimony. The landlord of the apartment where Rahman lived has not been found at fault and other tenants continue to live there. Rahman’s death sparked protests in Limassol and Nicosia against racism faced by third-country nationals in Cyprus.
Police seek phone data in “Dimitroui” murder case
Police are gaining access to telecommunications data in the investigation into the death of Dimitris Andronikou, also known as “Dimitroui,” after the case was reclassified from attempted murder to murder. Court warrants have been acquired to examine phone and messaging data of suspects and others involved, with the goal of revealing communication patterns to strengthen the evidence against the accused. The suspects remain at large as the Law Office prepares to file indictments for premeditated murder, withdrawing the current attempted murder charges.
Greek Cypriot arrested in north in fake passport case
A Greek Cypriot man appeared in court in the north for his part in a case involving third country nationals allegedly traveling to and from the north using fake passports. The police understood upon receiving the passport that it was counterfeit. The passenger ran off and re-entered the north via a military base. The Greek Cypriot man claimed he was approached at a petrol station and offered money to take the passenger to the Republic. The police found the hire car used in the incident in Trikomo and arrested both brothers who were in the car.
Police net arrests in Limassol, Famagusta theft crackdown
Police cracked down on thefts and vandalism in Limassol and Famagusta districts. In Limassol, a 34-year-old man was arrested for handling stolen goods after being found with items stolen from two vehicles. In Famagusta, two teenagers and a 25-year-old man were arrested for possession of burglary tools and linked to a series of thefts from vehicles in Ayia Napa. Another 17-year-old is awaiting a court hearing for theft from a parked car in the same area.
Anastasiades corruption probe focuses on surveillance claims in “Mafia State”
The investigation by the Independent Authority Against Corruption (IAAC) into Makarios Drousiotis’ book “Mafia State” intensified with a hearing focused on the chapter “A Spy in the Palm of My Hand.” Drousiotis presented evidence of being surveilled through electronic devices, raising questions about potential police involvement. The book details his experience of approaching the police with suspicions of being monitored through malware. The investigation also looks into the events surrounding Russian oligarch Dmitry Rybolovlev’s divorce in Cyprus, alleging involvement of a law firm with ties to the former president, questionable legislative amendments, favorable court rulings, and suspicious financial transactions. Former President Nicos Anastasiades has denied all allegations. Gabrielle Louise McIntyre is leading the IAAC inspection team, with witness testimonies ongoing. Sophie in ‘t Veld warned in 2023 that individuals in public life are at risk of surveillance, emphasizing the importance of accountability in democracy.
Waterborne illness now threaten flood-ravaged southern Brazil
Waterborne diseases, particularly leptospirosis, are a major concern in Brazil’s southernmost state of Rio Grande do Sul following catastrophic floods that killed at least 169 people. Seven deaths from leptospirosis have been reported since the rains began, with another 10 deaths under investigation. Over 2,300 potential cases have been reported, with 141 confirmed. To address the high demand for medical care, four field hospitals and mobile teams have been set up. Additionally, residents returning to their homes may encounter venomous animals seeking shelter from rainwater. The destruction has also taken a toll on the mental health of the population.
Disciplinary action begins against CyBC director general for mismanagement
Disciplinary proceedings have begun at state broadcaster CyBC against director general Thanasis Tsokos for allegations of abuse of power and financial mismanagement. The board of CyBC is meeting to appoint a Deputy Director General to ensure normal operation. A decision for a disciplinary investigation into Tsokos was made by the cabinet on April 30, 2024, with Emmanuella Lambrianidou appointed as the investigating officer.
He once sold tea, now India, ’s Modi seeks his own ‘tryst with destiny’
Narendra Modi aims to set India on the path to abolishing poverty and becoming a fully developed nation by 2047, the 100th year of independence from British colonial rule.
Fire service responds to 31 incidents in 24 hours
Fire crews responded to a total of 31 incidents in a 24-hour period, including 22 fires. One significant blaze engulfed the enclosed balcony of a third-floor apartment in Nicosia, causing extensive damage. Another fire occurred in a prefabricated building in Athienou, spreading to a kitchen and parking area. Lastly, firefighters extinguished a car fire involving a Nissan vehicle on the Paphos-Chada road, which also scorched a nearby patch of dry grass. The cause of each fire is under investigation.