Czech news in brief for August 10: Saturday's top headlines

A new treaty between Czechia and Ukraine, signed in July, aims to enhance police cooperation in fighting crime, allowing for joint teams and liaison officers. The treaty replaces an outdated 1997 agreement, enabling collaboration on crime prevention, public order, and illegal migration. However, some Czech opposition members express concerns over potential security risks due to the ongoing conflict in Ukraine. The treaty also addresses cooperation in identifying victims of mass casualties and other incidents.

Czech kayaker Josef Dostál won the gold medal in the men’s kayak single 1000m at the Paris Summer Olympics, marking his first Olympic gold and fifth career medal. This victory adds to the Czech Republic’s medal tally, which includes golds from canoeist Martin Fuksa and the tennis duo Tomáš Macháč and Kateřina Siniaková. Dostál's fiancée, Anežka Paloudová, finished 15th in the women’s 500m event.

Temperatures in South Moravia are expected to exceed 31 degree Celsius on Sunday, while other regions will remain below 30 degrees, according to the Czech Hydrometeorological Institute. High temperatures are expected to spread across the country early next week, with possible highs reaching 34 degree Celsius. During extreme heat, it is advised to stay hydrated, avoid strenuous activities, and keep children and pets out of direct sunlight.

Renowned Czech actor Rudolf Jelínek has passed away at age 89, his daughter has confirmed to Czech News Agency. Jelínek, celebrated for his extensive work in film, television, theater, and radio, won the František Filipovský Award in 2020 for his achievements in dubbing. Born in Kutná Hora in 1935, he performed at various theaters including the Vinohrady Theatre in Prague. Jelínek is survived by his family, including his second wife Martina Růžičková.

Czech MPs have convened over 100 times this term, nearly double the 58 sessions held during the same period in the previous term, according to the Chamber of Deputies Office. The current term has seen 110 sessions, with a notable increase in overnight sessions, rising from four in the past term to 22. MPs have also taken about 6,300 votes so far, similar to the previous term’s 6,230.

The fennec fox that escaped from Prague Zoo on Wednesday has been safely returned to its enclosure. The zoo was alerted by a couple who discovered the small canid asleep on the steps outside their home. The animal had escaped the zoo by jumping over the glass of its outdoor enclosure. Despite attempts to capture it nearby, the zoo requested public assistance. The fennec fox, imported from Dortmund, Germany, is now back under the care of zoo staff.

The Czech Ministry of Labour and Social Affairs has been fined CZK 25,000 by the Labour Inspectorate for allowing alcohol consumption during a Christmas party held at the ministry on December 21, 2023. The fine was issued because employees were still on duty when the party started. Minister Marian Jurečka announced that he would pay an additional CZK 25,000 to the state as compensation. The party took place on the same day as a tragic shooting at Charles University in Prague.

Defense Minister Jana Černochová has proposed an amendment that would expand the powers of the Military Police and enhance their efficiency. Set to take effect on July 1, 2025, the changes would allow the Military Police to use drones, confiscate driver's licenses, and enter private property to protect lives. The amendment also introduces a ban on photographing marked military objects, with fines up to CZK 100,000 for violations. These measures respond to recent security concerns and unauthorized use of military uniforms.

The coalition of Freedom and Direct Democracy (SPD), Tricolour, and PRO now faces an another official complaint for a controversial election campaign image depicting a dark-skinned man with a bloody knife. Lawyer Pavla Krejčí has filed a motion with the Central Bohemian Regional Court to ban the image, arguing that it undermines the democratic nature of elections. The campaign has also prompted a criminal complaint for inciting hatred against minorities.

Czech police have shelved the investigation into an April hacking attack on the Czech News Agency (CTK) website, where a fake report was posted, citing insufficient evidence to identify the perpetrator. However, traces of the attack point to Russia. The breach involved posting false information about an assassination attempt on Slovakia's President. While CTK’s main editorial system was unaffected, the attack aimed to damage the news agency’s credibility.