Authorities said they suspect arson after a fire broke out in the Fasouri area of Limassol on Wednesday early afternoon which burned reed fields and wild vegetation.

The blaze broke out around 1pm and smoke could be seen across the area near the casino which is under construction in the area. It was brought under control about five hours later.

Fire service spokesman Andreas Kettis said they had been called to assist with putting out the blaze’s eastern front.

The Ikaros contingency plan was activated and several fire engines were at the scene along with eight helicopters.

The area, located near the British Bases, falls under the forestry department, a British Bases spokesperson told Cyprus Mail.

They added that fire fighters will stay in the area overnight to deal with any potential flare ups.

As media reported on the ‘environmental disaster’ caused by the fire, competent authorities were investigating the causes.

“It looks suspicious due to the area it started from but there is no evidence,” the spokesperson said, adding that investigations will continue early in the morning.

The fire destroyed reed plantations, trees and wild vegetation.

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