A series of tragedies unfolded on Thursday, with four people losing their lives within a matter of hours in separate incidents across the island. Three deaths were recorded in sea-related incidents, while questions remain surrounding a fourth case, with an autopsy expected to determine the exact cause of death.
The day began with reports that a 69-year-old Greek Cypriot man was found unconscious floating in the sea area of Kiti. Initial assessments by authorities point to possible drowning, although investigators have not ruled out the possibility that the death may have resulted from medical causes.
Authorities expect the autopsy to establish the precise cause of death.
Questions remain over death of 29-year-old man
A few hours later, authorities confirmed another death involving a 29-year-old man from Syria.
Although the incident occurred during the early hours of Thursday, police released information later in the day. According to evidence under investigation, the 29-year-old allegedly became involved in an incident at a car lot, took a vehicle from the premises and later crashed it in a traffic accident.
Despite no external injuries being immediately detected following the crash, the man later developed respiratory failure and shock. Medical staff transferred him to the hospital, where he died at around 3:00 am.
Investigators have not yet determined what caused the sudden deterioration in his condition or whether it was directly linked to the road collision. The forthcoming autopsy is expected to provide answers.
Double sea tragedy in Oroklini
Particular shock and sadness followed a double tragedy that unfolded later in the afternoon in the sea area of Oroklini, where two young women lost their lives.
At around 7:30 pm, the Joint Rescue Coordination Centre activated the national search and rescue plan “NEARCHOS” to locate and rescue two women of Somali origin who were in danger at sea.
The operation involved members of the Marine and Port Police, lifeguards and two ambulances from the State Health Services Organisation ambulance service.
The two women, both aged 20 and legally living and working in Cyprus, were recovered unconscious from the sea and transferred to Larnaca General Hospital, where doctors confirmed their deaths.
Strong currents reportedly swept group away
According to information available so far, the women were at the location with at least three other people. Reports suggest that three individuals entered the sea near the breakwaters and were pulled away by strong currents, prompting calls for help.
Despite the immediate response of members of the public and emergency services who rushed to assist, only one woman survived, while the other two were recovered dead, leaving relatives and friends in mourning.
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