18 people injured in fight between a group of Africans and Pakistani asylum seekers in south Cyprus

At least 18 people were hospitalized and treated for their injuries following a fight that broke out between a group off African and Pakistanis at the asylum reception center in south Cyprus on Saturday.

The violence involving Pakistani and African descent at the Pournara reception centre housing asylum seekers broke out at about 5:00pm on Saturday. One person was injured and hospitalized.

Greek Cypriot police said information from the centre suggested that as many as 300 people were involved in the fight which started earlier in the morning around 11:00am on Saturday between two different nationalities.

Police had to intervene and break up two mass fights. Reports said police had to intervene with tear gas.

“With the intervention of the police, the incidents were put under control,” a police spokesman said.

No injuries were reported from the morning incidents.

18 individuals hospitalised and treated for their injuries has been discharged from Nicosia General Hospital.

The Cyprus News Agency (CNA) reported that 17 of those injured were released after receiving first aid treatment, while the 18th was detained to be examined by an Ear, Nose and Throat specialist. He was also released following further medical examinations on Saturday.

Officers collected witness statements to determine the exact cause of the brawl.