Zurich police arrest two over asylum centre fire

Zurich police have arrested two men on suspicion of arson after a fire at a federal asylum centre in the city, SRF reported Tuesday.

The fire broke out in a sleeping room at about 4:30 p.m. on Monday, prompting the evacuation of the entire building. Firefighters brought it under control quickly, but extinguishing work and smoke removal continued until shortly before midnight.

Four people were taken to hospital with suspected smoke inhalation: one resident and three employees of the centre. The two arrested men are a 22-year-old Tunisian and a 24-year-old Algerian. The investigation is continuing.

Some residents were able to return after work at the building was completed. Alternative accommodation had to be arranged for 160 people, police said.