**Man Arrested After Lighting Lighter at Larnaca Petrol Station**
A 38-year-old man was arrested on Saturday after a dangerous incident at a petrol station in the Larnaca district, where he ignited a lighter while refueling a vehicle. The event occurred late Friday evening, prompting a swift response from local authorities.
According to police reports, the man and a 32-year-old associate arrived at the petrol station in the younger man's car. As the 38-year-old began to fill the tank with petrol, he took out a lighter and lit it, which led to a fire breaking out. Quick-thinking bystanders at the scene managed to extinguish the flames using a fire extinguisher. However, the fire caused damage to both the vehicle and the petrol pump.
Both men sustained injuries as a result of the incident. The 32-year-old suffered a superficial burn on his left hand and was treated at the Larnaca General Hospital before being discharged. In contrast, the 38-year-old sustained more severe injuries, including second- and third-degree burns to his legs and right hand. He was initially treated at the Larnaca General Hospital but was later transferred to the Nicosia General Hospital for further care.
After receiving treatment, the 38-year-old was discharged on Saturday morning at his own request. He then attempted to leave the country via Larnaca Airport later that afternoon. However, by that time, a warrant for his arrest had been issued, leading to his apprehension at the airport.
Following his arrest, the man was returned to the Nicosia General Hospital's burns unit due to the severity of his injuries. Police have stated that he is currently "out of danger."
The incident raises concerns about safety protocols at petrol stations and the potential hazards associated with improper behavior around flammable materials. Authorities continue to investigate the circumstances surrounding the event.