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Summary for: Czech news in brief for April 30: Thursday's top morning headlines
No fire ban ahead of 'Witch Burning'
No fire ban ahead of 'Witch Burning'
The Czech Hydrometeorological Institute reported on that high winds have increased wildfire risks ahead of traditional witch burning celebrations. Under Czech law, regional governments and municipalities hold the authority to ban witch bonfires based on meteorological warnings and Fire Rescue Service recommendations. While no official ban is currently in place, people are advise to keep an eye on the firefighters' website.
Large stores to remain open on May 1
The Czech News Agency reported on Thursday, April 30, that retail regulations will impact shopping hours during the upcoming May holidays. While stores may remain open on Labor Day, May 1, the Retail Sales Hours Act mandates that shops exceeding 200 square meters must close on Victory Day, May 8. Exemptions apply to pharmacies, gas stations, and transit hub outlets. Smaller shops and online delivery services are permitted to operate without legal restrictions.
Psychiatrist sentenced to five years for assault
The Prague 8 District Court sentenced psychiatrist Jan Cimický to five years in prison on Wednesday for sexual assault and extortion. Judge Petr Novák ruled that the 78-year-old abused 39 victims, mostly patients, between 1979 and 2019. The court also imposed a ten-year medical practice ban and ordered six million crowns in compensation. While the defense immediately appealed the verdict, the judge described the victims' testimonies as credible and fully incriminating.
Muzeum metro entrance to reopen in early May
Brief: The Prague Public Transport Company announced on Wednesday, April 29, that the Muzeum metro station entrance at Washington Street will reopen by mid-May 2026. Closed since mid-2024 for a 1.24 billion crown renovation of Wenceslas Square, the upgraded facility features expanded space and a new escalator. This reopening precedes the permanent closure of remaining entrances near the St. Wenceslas statue to accommodate new tram tracks scheduled for completion in mid-2027.
Foreign hockey players reach record numbers
Brief: The Czech Extraliga concluded its 2025/2026 season this week with a record 123 foreign players participating across the league. Statistics released following the final matches confirm this figure surpasses the previous record of 120 athletes. Slovaks remained the largest group with 40 representatives, followed by 28 Canadians. Mountfield HK utilized the most international talent with 13 players, while Motor České Budějovice maintained the league's lowest count with six.
