Cyprus is currently facing a concerning wave of incidents, encompassing a suspected fatal poisoning, a series of arson attacks, and a significant technological disruption at a correctional facility. Authorities are diligently investigating each event, deploying substantial resources to uncover the full circumstances and apprehend those responsible. The Larnaca CID is spearheading the poisoning investigation, while Limassol police have successfully made an arrest concerning a major theft. Simultaneously, the island's fire services have been extensively engaged responding to multiple blazes across various districts.
The most distressing development unfolded over the weekend when a 78-year-old pensioner in Larnaca tragically died, with four other individuals requiring hospitalization in critical condition. This incident, occurring within a private residence, is being thoroughly investigated as a suspected case of water poisoning. Detectives are meticulously examining a specific water source on the property, and forensic teams have been diligently collecting samples for comprehensive laboratory analysis. The investigation is also scrutinizing plumbing systems and any stored water containers to pinpoint the origin of the alleged contamination.
In a separate, yet equally troubling, development, Limassol police have apprehended a 36-year-old man in connection with a spate of thefts. The arrest, following the execution of a judicial warrant, resulted in the recovery of a considerable quantity of stolen property, including valuable power tools and two trailers. The suspect is currently in custody, cooperating with police inquiries into a broader pattern of criminal activity. The investigation into a power tool theft, reported on January 2nd, 2026, appears to have been a significant catalyst for this recent apprehension.
Meanwhile, a technological malfunction originating from the Central Prisons has inadvertently caused considerable disruption to mobile phone services in the surrounding residential and commercial areas. The prison's sophisticated phone-blocking system, intended to prevent illicit inmate communications, has been found to have an unintended extended range, interfering with legitimate network connectivity for nearby residents and businesses. This situation has prompted renewed scrutiny of the system's efficacy and its wider impact, potentially leading to further discussions and proposals being presented to the Cabinet.
Adding to the island's challenges, a series of unrelated fires have erupted across Paphos, Limassol, and Larnaca districts over the past two days. In Paphos, an early Saturday morning blaze in the industrial zone caused extensive damage to vehicles and a caravan. Limassol experienced two fires on Friday evening, resulting in significant damage to a car and a moped. The Larnaca district also reported a fire on Friday morning in Avdellero, which led to the collapse of an outbuilding. Forensic examinations are underway to determine the precise origins of these destructive events.