Czech news in brief for January 13: Monday's top headlines

Health experts have warned this afternoon that Czechia is entering a nationwide flu epidemic, with 1,416 acute respiratory infections per 100,000 people reported last week, a 70-percent increase from the Christmas holidays, according to the State Institute of Health. Some regions, including Vysočina and South Moravia, have surpassed the "epidemic threshold" of 1,600 cases. Experts expect underreporting and anticipate further rises, particularly among children, as schools reopen. Covid-19 cases remain lower than pre-holiday levels.

Former Czech soldier Filip Siman was sentenced to eight years in prison for looting during the Ukraine war, with the Prague High Court increasing his original sentence by one year. Siman, who joined Ukrainian forces in 2022, took valuables from civilians and soldiers, violating norms of civilized conduct, the court ruled. Prosecutors also charged him with serving in foreign armed forces, emphasizing the social harm of his actions.

Police today disclosed that three Polish couriers were arrested at Prague Airport on Dec. 27 for smuggling over 14 kilos of heroin and nearly six kilos of cutting agents, customs officials announced. Two suspects arrived from Thailand, while a third traveled via Switzerland from South Africa. Officials uncovered the drugs during luggage checks but did not confirm if the cases were linked.

Police have yet to identify several victims of a fire in Most (Ústí nad Labem) that broke out late Saturday. Seven people remain hospitalized, with three in critical condition. Authorities are investigating the cause, while Interior Minister Vit Rakusan ordered a review of firefighting protocols. The fire likely started at the U koyota restaurant, and firefighters removed its damaged wooden structure after the investigation concluded Sunday afternoon.

Czech Republic reported a record 268 cyber incidents in 2024, a six-fold increase from 2023, according to National Cyber and Information Security Office (NUKIB) director Lukas Kintr. DDoS attacks, primarily by Russian-language hacktivist groups, were the most common, often linked to the Ukraine conflict. Ransomware attacks, though fewer, remain a serious threat, leading to data breaches and disruptions. The recent paralysis of Slovakia's Cadastral Office highlights the severe impact of such incidents.

Prime Minister Petr Fiala admitted Sunday he erred by not informing citizens that election promises were no longer valid after Russia invaded Ukraine. Speaking on CNN Prima News, he emphasized his focus on navigating the crisis and criticized opposition parties for undermining his government during challenging times. Fiala said his cabinet aims to fulfill 93 percent of its program but acknowledged obstacles as parliamentary elections loom this fall.

A devastating fire at U Kojota restaurant in Most claimed six lives and injured eight others late Saturday. Three remain in critical condition. Firefighters ended their operation Sunday night after demolishing the burned wooden structure. Initial investigations suggest a tipped gas heater caused the blaze. A crisis line has been established, and authorities are reviewing safety at similar structures citywide. The incident ranks among Czechia’s deadliest fires since 1990.

Nominations for the 32nd Czech Lion Awards, celebrating 93 Czech films and TV works from 2024, will be announced today by the Czech Film and Television Academy (ČFTA). Changes include combining TV miniseries and series into one category and expanded acting awards. Winners will be honored on March 8 at Rudolfinum. Last year’s top film was Brothers by Tomáš Mašín. Notable awards went to Volga and Bod obnovy, with Kryštof Hádek and Simona Peková recognized for leading roles.

Avalanche danger in the Czech Krkonoše Mountains has increased to level three of five, following heavy snowfall and strong winds. The Krkonoše Mountain Service warns of significant risks, especially on steep, leeward slopes. Hiking is advised with caution. The upper section of the Sněžka cable car remains closed due to wind. The third avalanche level, first this season, is expected to remain in effect Monday.

Czech bakers produced 220,000 tons of bread last year, up 20,000 tons year-on-year, per industry groups. While demand for traditional pastries remains steady, consumers increasingly seek healthier options like rye, whole-grain, and gluten-free products. Small bakeries and local collaborations are growing trends, alongside sustainability. Retail chains report rising sales of specialty baked goods as shoppers prioritize quality, taste, and eco-friendly choices over price, according to industry leaders.