Man arrested after petrol station fire in Larnaca district

Larnaca, Cyprus. A 38-year-old man was arrested after allegedly lighting a lighter while petrol was being pumped into a car at a petrol station in the Larnaca district, causing a fire late on Friday.

The fire damaged the car and a fuel pump, while the 38-year-old and his 32-year-old associate suffered burns, police said.

Fire at petrol station

According to police, the two men arrived at the petrol station in the 32-year-old’s car. The 38-year-old exited the vehicle to refuel it and lit a lighter while petrol was being pumped into the car.

People nearby extinguished the fire using a fire extinguisher.

Hospital treatment and arrest

Both men were taken to Larnaca General Hospital. The 32-year-old sustained a superficial burn to his left hand, received treatment and was discharged.

The 38-year-old suffered second- and third-degree burns to his legs and right hand. He was transferred to Nicosia General Hospital for further treatment and was discharged on Saturday morning at his own request.

He later arrived at Larnaca Airport on Saturday afternoon intending to return to the country where he lives. A warrant had been issued for his arrest, and he was arrested at the airport.

Following his arrest, he was returned to the burns unit at Nicosia General Hospital due to the severity of his injuries. Police said he is out of danger.