One person was said to be in a serious condition while six more were being treated for respiratory problems after a fire broke out on Thursday afternoon in the holding wing at Limassol police headquarters.

Reports said one individual – a detainee at the facility – suffered extensive burns. He was transferred to a Nicosia hospital.

Some media outlets suggested the man had set fire to his cell.

The fire spread to the rest of the holding wing, causing widespread damage.

Four police officers, as well as two or three detainees, suffered respiratory problems.

The building was evacuated. The detainees were being transferred to other holding facilities.

Authorities are investigating the cause of the fire.