A massive fire engulfed a police facility in the northeastern province of Ismailia early Monday, leaving at least 38 people injured before firefighters successfully brought the blaze under control, according to authorities.

The fire tore through the multistory police headquarters located in the city of Ismailia, approximately 125 kilometers (77 miles) northeast of Cairo. The cause of the incident remains unclear.

Interior Minister Mahmoud Tawfiq, responsible for overseeing police forces, swiftly arrived at the site, announcing the formation of a committee to investigate the fire.

Hossam Abdel-Ghaffar, spokesperson for the Health Ministry, revealed that 12 of the injured were treated on-site, while 26 others were transported to hospitals. Most of the injuries were related to breathing difficulties, with seven individuals already treated and discharged.

The extent of police personnel present in the building during the incident has not been confirmed. Local media reports suggest severe damage to the police building. (ILKHA)