Investigation into monastery above board says Archbishop
The Archbishop stated that the events at the Osiou Avakoum monastery are within the statute of the Church and legal, and the trial will proceed normally.
charges
Government taking away passports from dozens of investors
Cypriot authorities are revoking the citizenship of 68 investors and 165 dependents next week due to criminal offenses pending against them. Among those affected are individuals from China, Russia, and India. The decision to strip citizenship was made based on information provided by Interpol regarding various criminal charges, such as fraud and bribery, that carry significant prison sentences. The individuals have the right to appeal the decision with the Independent Authority on Citizenship Debarment.
California testing car tracking as possible gas tax replacement
States, like California, are exploring alternative ways to recoup lost gas tax revenue by piloting a “road charge” program that charges drivers based on the number of miles they drive rather than how much gas they purchase. The program is optional and participants can earn up to 0 in incentives for providing feedback on their experience. The state is considering this alternative revenue source due to the decrease in gas tax revenue collection and the shift towards electric vehicles. The program includes security protocols to protect personal information, and no action or changes are currently being proposed.
Monks in Osiou Avakoum scandal claim inquiry illegal
Monks embroiled in the Osiou Avakoum monastery scandal have stated that the investigative committee’s procedures are illegal. The church’s 2021 ruling required investigative committees to have three members, while the church’s establishment charter stipulates five members.
World Court orders Israel to stop Rafah offensive
Judges at the International Court of Justice ordered Israel to immediately halt its military assault on the southern Gaza city of Rafah. The court backed a South African request to stop Israel’s offensive in Rafah, with Israel arguing its operations are self-defense against Hamas militants. Israel’s assault on Rafah has forced hundreds of thousands of Palestinians to flee, cutting off aid and raising the risk of famine. The court’s rulings are final and binding, but lack enforcement powers. Israel faces diplomatic pressure and accusations of crimes against humanity at the International Criminal Court. Israel denies charges of genocide and continues its military operations in Gaza.
Man guilty of sexually abusing 11-year-old foster daughter
A 50-year-old man was convicted on 15 charges of sexually abusing his 11-year-old foster daughter over the course of a year, as ruled by a court in Limassol. The man committed the crimes against the minor in the home where she lived as a foster child. The court found prosecutors’ witnesses credible and the defense witnesses, including the accused, unreliable. The defendant denied the charges, leading to a trial. The victim, now 14, was placed in the foster home three years ago after receiving little affection from her biological parents. She eventually spoke out about the abuse, leading to a complaint with authorities and the subsequent prosecution at the Limassol Criminal Court.
Man admits to cannabis charges in Paphos court
A 29-year-old man admitted to charges of importing and possession with intent to supply 28 kilograms of cannabis, as well as money laundering from illegal activities. He was arrested at Paphos airport on January 31 after police found the drugs in his bags. The state lab confirmed the seized packages contained cannabis. The man has been in custody since his arrest. The case will resume on June 20, and the court has ordered that he remains in custody until then.
Tourists reportedly kidnapped, assaulted after meeting man on Limassol beach
Limassol Police are investigating a violent incident involving two Latvian tourists who were allegedly lured into a car by a man they met at Pyrgos beach. The women claim they were indecently assaulted and sustained injuries while attempting to escape. One woman suffered a fractured sternum, while the other received treatment for bruising and friction burns. Police are close to identifying the suspect and plan to issue an arrest warrant soon. Charges being considered include kidnapping, indecent assault, grievous bodily harm, and actual bodily harm.
Cyprus mulling urban tolls to reduce car use
The Environmental Impact Assessment for Cyprus’ National Strategic Land Transport Plan is open for public consultation until June 14, 2024. The plan aims to increase public transport usage to 17% and reduce car usage by 14%. The primary objective is to identify potential environmental impacts and propose measures to prevent or offset them. The plan includes increasing electric vehicle and hydrogen stations to reduce greenhouse gas emissions, as well as improving public transport with dedicated lanes and increased service frequencies. Measures like urban tolls and low-emission zones are proposed to discourage car use and reduce air pollution. The plan also includes incentives for sustainable transport modes and creating new job opportunities.
UK to hold general election on July 4, as Labour leads polls
British Prime Minister Rishi Sunak has called for a national election on July 4, where voters will choose between stability with him or the unknown with Labour leader Keir Starmer. Sunak, who is behind in the polls, is taking a risk by calling the election earlier than expected. Both parties have begun campaigning, with Sunak accusing Labour of planning to increase taxes if in power, while Labour criticizes the government for economic mismanagement. If Labour wins, Britain will have had six prime ministers in eight years for the first time since the 1830s. Starmer has pledged to “rebuild Britain” if Labour forms the next government. Sunak hopes to capitalize on uncertainty and economic gains to boost his party’s fortunes in the election.