A fire that broke out in a cafeteria in Dhekelia overnight is being investigated, with authorities now attributing it to malicious intent.

According to the Famagusta police, the fire broke out shortly before 1am on Friday, March 6, at a café-restaurant owned by a 48-year-old man, located in the electricity authority (EAC) refugee housing complex.

The fire was extinguished by firefighters from the Larnaca fire department and the British bases in Dhekelia. The blaze caused extensive damage to the interior of the premises.

On Thursday, police, fire service officials, and the electromechanical service conducted investigations at the scene. Authorities have determined that the fire resulted from an act of arson. Evidence was collected from the scene and will be sent for forensic examination.

The Famagusta CID is continuing its investigation.