A court in Cyprus has sentenced Israeli businessman Shimon Mistriel Aykout to five years in prison for illegally developing and selling luxury apartment complexes in the breakaway northern part of the island. The 75-year-old, who also holds Portuguese and Turkish citizenship, pleaded guilty to 40 counts of constructing and selling properties on land owned by Greek Cypriots without their consent. The case highlights the ongoing property rights dispute in Cyprus, which has been divided since Turkey’s 1974 invasion following a coup attempt to unite the island with Greece. Approximately 160,000 Greek Cypriots fled the north, while 45,000 Turkish Cypriots moved from the south to the north. The internationally recognized government in the south has no control over the Turkish-backed north, and Greek Cypriots continue to demand their property rights through UN-mediated talks. Aykout’s company, Afik Group, developed 400,000 square meters of Greek Cypriot-owned land between 2014 and 2024, with an estimated value exceeding €38 million. Despite appeals for his release on health grounds, the court upheld the sentence, emphasizing the severity of the crime. Prosecutors hailed the ruling as a clear message against exploiting stolen property, while Turkish Cypriot leaders warned of potential economic repercussions. The case is part of a broader crackdown on illegal property exploitation in the north, with several other foreign nationals facing similar charges.
标签： Europe
欧洲
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EU accuses Meta and TikTok of breaching transparency rules
The European Union has announced that Meta and TikTok have failed to meet their transparency obligations under the Digital Services Act (DSA), potentially exposing both companies to substantial fines. The investigation, launched in 2024, revealed that the platforms did not provide adequate access to data for researchers and made it difficult for users to report illegal content or challenge moderation decisions. The EU’s executive vice president for tech sovereignty, Henna Virkunnen, emphasized the importance of accountability, stating that platforms must empower users, respect their rights, and allow public scrutiny. The inquiry also found that Meta’s Instagram and Facebook employed ‘dark patterns’—deceptive interface designs—that hindered the reporting of harmful content, such as child exploitation or terrorist material. The European Commission described these practices as ‘confusing and dissuading,’ potentially rendering them ineffective. Meta and TikTok have been given the opportunity to respond to the findings, but if found guilty, they could face fines of up to 6% of their annual global revenue, amounting to billions of dollars. Meta has disputed the findings but expressed willingness to continue discussions with the EU, while TikTok has called for clarity on reconciling the DSA’s transparency requirements with the EU’s stringent privacy regulations under the General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR).
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Defective block grant scheme firm hit by cyber attack
A significant cyber attack has targeted Jennings O’Donovan, an engineering firm collaborating with Ireland’s Housing Agency on a scheme to assist homeowners affected by defective concrete blocks. The breach, described as ‘concerning’ by officials, potentially exposed sensitive personal data, including addresses, contact details, and photographs of affected properties. The Housing Agency confirmed the incident was isolated to the firm and is actively working to notify impacted applicants. Charles Ward TD, a representative of the 100% Redress Party, emphasized the need for transparency, urging affected families to receive clear information about the compromised data and protective measures being implemented. The defective block issue has plagued thousands of homes, primarily in Clare, Donegal, Limerick, Mayo, and Sligo, where water-absorbing minerals in bricks have caused structural failures, necessitating demolition. The Housing Agency is coordinating with Jennings O’Donovan to investigate the breach and has informed the Data Protection Commissioner and local authorities. Affected individuals are being advised to await direct communication from the agency, as those not contacted are not impacted by the incident.
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How a German freight lift became an unexpected social media star in the Louvre heist
In a daring daylight robbery at the Louvre Museum, thieves demonstrated a surprising level of German efficiency, utilizing a German-made freight lift to execute their plan. The incident, which unfolded in less than four minutes, saw the criminals wheel the lift to the museum, ascend the façade, force open a window, and make off with priceless Napoleonic jewels before escaping on motorbikes through central Paris. Photos of the freight lift, manufactured by Böcker Maschinenwerke GmbH, quickly went viral, turning the spotlight on the company. Alexander Böcker, the managing director and third-generation owner, expressed initial shock at the misuse of their product but soon embraced the situation with a sense of humor. By Monday morning, the company had launched a social media campaign featuring the lift, highlighting its capabilities with a slogan that translates to ‘when something needs to be done quickly.’ The post emphasized the lift’s ability to transport up to 400 kilograms of ‘your treasures’ at a speed of 42 meters per minute, powered by a whisper-quiet 230 Volt E-Motor. Böcker acknowledged the overwhelming positive feedback, though he clarified that the lift is not designed to transport humans. The incident has inadvertently turned into a marketing coup for the company, showcasing the unexpected intersection of crime and commerce.
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Huge noise then I yelled to get out – Louvre attendant recalls shock of heist
In a brazen daylight robbery at the Louvre Museum in Paris, thieves made off with eight priceless crown jewels, including treasures once belonging to Empress Marie-Louise and Empress Eugenie, with an estimated total value of €88 million. The heist unfolded on Sunday morning as visitors began to arrive, leaving staff and tourists in shock. An unnamed gallery attendant recounted the moment the thieves used an angle grinder to break through a reinforced window into the Gallery of Apollo, where the historic jewelry is housed. ‘No-one could have been prepared for this,’ she said, describing the chaos that ensued. The gang, equipped with a mechanical ladder mounted on a lorry, accessed the first-floor balcony and swiftly seized the treasures within eight minutes. Two tourists reportedly fled in panic as one of the criminals brandished what appeared to be a chainsaw. The attendant and her colleagues evacuated visitors and secured neighboring galleries, but the thieves escaped on scooters, leaving behind a trail of evidence, including a damaged crown. The museum’s director, Laurence des Cars, revealed that years of underfunding and inadequate security measures, such as a single misaligned external camera, contributed to the breach. While French ministers defended the museum’s security protocols, staff expressed concerns about a declining ‘culture of security’ at the iconic institution.
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‘I admit I cried’ – Hermoso on Spain recall
Jenni Hermoso, Spain’s all-time leading scorer with 57 goals, has been recalled to the national team by new manager Sonia Bermudez after a year-long absence. Hermoso last appeared for Spain in October 2024, coming off the bench in a match against Canada. Her return follows a tumultuous period during which she testified in the trial of former Spanish Football Federation (RFEF) president Luis Rubiales, who was convicted of sexual assault for kissing Hermoso without her consent after Spain’s 2023 World Cup final victory. Despite not being called up for Euro 2025, where Spain lost to England on penalties, Hermoso played a crucial role in Spain’s qualification campaign and their bronze medal match at the Paris Olympics, where they were defeated by Germany. Hermoso, who currently plays for Mexican club Tigres, expressed her emotions about the recall, stating, ‘I have to admit that I cried. It was a moment I have waited a long time for and I’ve been working for a long time for. To continue at this level and to be able to enjoy football with the national team is the reward for all that work.’ Hermoso, now 35, is the oldest member of the squad but remains undeterred by her age, emphasizing that ‘age is just a number.’ She is focused on making a fresh start and contributing to Spain’s upcoming Women’s Nations League semi-final against Sweden. Bermudez, who took over as manager after Montse Tome’s contract was not renewed in August, has also recalled Barcelona defender Mapi Leon, who last played for Spain in 2022. Hermoso’s return marks a significant moment for Spanish women’s football as they aim to rebuild and move forward from the controversies of the past.
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Turkish court dismisses case challenging main opposition party’s congress
In a significant ruling on Friday, a Turkish court dismissed a lawsuit challenging the legitimacy of the Republican People’s Party’s (CHP) internal election held in November 2023. The case, which sought to annul the party’s 38th congress, alleged electoral fraud, including vote-buying and procedural violations. The court found no legal basis to overturn the election results, thereby affirming the leadership of current CHP chairperson Ozgur Ozel. The lawsuit had raised the possibility of reinstating former leader Kemal Kilicdaroglu or appointing a trustee chairman, a move that could have destabilized the party. The CHP has consistently denied the allegations, labeling the legal action as a politically motivated effort by President Recep Tayyip Erdogan’s government to weaken the opposition through judicial pressure. Critics argue that the case is part of a broader crackdown on the CHP, which has gained momentum in recent local elections. The party’s municipalities, including Istanbul under Mayor Ekrem Imamoglu, have faced waves of arrests this year. Imamoglu, a prominent Erdogan critic, remains in pre-trial custody on corruption charges, which he denies. His arrest in March sparked widespread protests, further intensifying political tensions in the country. Erdogan’s administration maintains that Turkey’s judiciary operates independently and that investigations are focused solely on combating corruption.
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Zelenskyy to meet European leaders in London for talks on military aid for Ukraine
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy arrived in London on Friday for a high-stakes meeting with over two dozen European leaders, hosted by British Prime Minister Keir Starmer. The discussions centered on strengthening Ukraine’s defenses against ongoing Russian aggression, particularly as winter approaches and the conflict enters its fourth year. Key topics included safeguarding Ukraine’s power grid from relentless drone and missile attacks, enhancing air defense systems, and supplying Kyiv with long-range missiles capable of striking deep within Russian territory. The gathering also aimed to intensify pressure on Russian President Vladimir Putin, building on recent sanctions imposed by the U.S. and European nations targeting Russia’s oil and gas exports. Despite these measures, Putin has remained steadfast in his refusal to negotiate peace, maintaining that Russia’s invasion of Ukraine is justified. Western leaders, including Starmer, expressed frustration over Putin’s unyielding stance, emphasizing repeated offers to end the conflict. The meeting, attended by NATO Secretary-General Mark Rutte and other European leaders, also explored the formation of a future “reassurance force” to support Ukraine’s security. This force, likely comprising air and naval support rather than ground troops, would rotate its headquarters between Paris and London. Meanwhile, the war continues to exact a heavy toll, with both sides suffering significant casualties and civilian infrastructure sustaining widespread damage. Recent drone attacks in Moscow and artillery strikes in Kherson underscore the ongoing volatility of the conflict. As Ukraine’s Western allies grapple with funding and postwar security guarantees, the London talks represent a critical step in shaping the international response to Europe’s largest military confrontation since World War II.
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Who were Ireland’s former presidents?
As the Republic of Ireland gears up to elect its 10th president on Friday, the nation reflects on the legacy of its past leaders. The election sees Independent TD Catherine Connolly, supported by Sinn Féin and left-wing parties, pitted against Fine Gael’s Heather Humphreys. This pivotal moment in Irish politics offers an opportunity to revisit the contributions of previous presidents who have shaped the nation’s history.
Douglas Hyde, Ireland’s first president (1938-1945), was a pivotal figure in the revival of the Irish language and culture. A co-founder of the Gaelic League and a renowned academic, Hyde’s inauguration marked a significant moment in Irish history, with crowds gathering in Dublin to honor his leadership.
Seán T Ó Ceallaigh, the second president, served two terms and played a crucial role in Ireland’s political evolution. A founder of Sinn Féin and a key figure in the 1916 Easter Rising, Ó Ceallaigh was instrumental in Ireland’s transition to a republic, signing the Republic of Ireland Act in 1948.
Eamon de Valera, born in New York, was a central figure in Ireland’s struggle for independence. A teacher, revolutionary, and founder of Fianna Fáil, de Valera served multiple terms as taoiseach before becoming president, leaving an indelible mark on Irish politics.
Erskine Childers, the fourth president, had a brief but impactful tenure. Born into a Protestant family in London, Childers’ presidency was marked by his commitment to public service and his father’s legacy of Irish nationalism.
Patrick Hillery, a medical doctor from County Clare, served two terms as president. His leadership came during a period of constitutional turmoil, and he emphasized the importance of the presidency in maintaining stability and continuity.
Mary Robinson, Ireland’s first female president, symbolized a new era of social change. A champion of women’s rights, Robinson’s election in 1990 marked a significant shift in Irish politics, paving the way for greater gender equality.
Mary McAleese, the first president from Northern Ireland, focused on reconciliation and building bridges between communities. Her presidency was highlighted by Queen Elizabeth’s historic visit to Ireland in 2011, a testament to the success of the peace process.
Michael D Higgins, the outgoing president, has been a vocal advocate for social justice and human rights. His two terms have been marked by his engagement with national and global issues, leaving a lasting impact on Irish society.
As Ireland prepares to welcome its 10th president, the nation looks forward to a new chapter in its political history, building on the foundations laid by its distinguished predecessors.
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Louvre heist inspires ad campaign for ‘whisper’ quiet lift
A German company, Böcker, has found itself unexpectedly linked to the high-profile theft at the Louvre Museum after one of its mechanical lifts was allegedly used in the heist. The Werne-based firm has seized the opportunity to launch a creative advertising campaign, leveraging the global attention surrounding the incident. The campaign features an image of their Agilo ladder extending to the Gallery of Apollo balcony, accompanied by the tagline, ‘When you need to move fast. The Böcker Agilo transports your treasures weighing up to 400kg at 42m/min – quiet as a whisper.’
The theft, which occurred on Sunday, involved the theft of €88 million worth of France’s crown jewels. Video footage shows the alleged thieves escaping on the Böcker ladder. Alexander Böcker, the company’s managing director, emphasized that while the crime is reprehensible, the incident provided a unique opportunity to promote their family-run business. ‘It was… an opportunity for us to use the most famous and most visited museum in the world to get a little attention for our company,’ he told AFP.
The campaign has garnered enthusiastic responses on social media, with users praising it as ‘marketing genius’ and ‘German quality.’ Mr. Böcker revealed that the ladder was sold years ago to a French customer who rents such equipment in Paris. The thieves reportedly arranged a demonstration of the machine last week and stole it during the process.
The Louvre reopened on Wednesday, days after what has been dubbed France’s most shocking theft. Museum director Laurence des Cars admitted to security lapses, including inadequate CCTV coverage. ‘We failed these jewels,’ she said, taking responsibility for the incident. Interior Minister Laurent Nuñez expressed confidence that the thieves, believed to be part of a criminal organization, would be apprehended.