'Ten killed' in naval base explosion in Cyprus

Around 10 people are feared dead following a massive explosion at a naval base in Cyprus today, a Defence Ministry spokeswoman said.

Aliki Stylianou could not immediately confirm the cause of the blast, which happened at the Evangelos Florakis Naval Base on the Mediterranean island’s southern coast at around 6.00am (3am Irish Time).

State television CyBC reported that the explosion also caused numerous injuries and extensive damage to homes in villages near the naval base.

Police spokesman Michalis Katsounotos said a fire at a nearby power station has been contained.