An extensive fire at the Hamilton Police Station jail area is being investigated as a possible arson attempt by prisoners,

The Royal Gazette visited the charred jail area at the station and witnessed the damage, which Fire officials estimated to be $5,000.

There were signs that the blaze had all but engulfed the first jail cell - one of four - extensively burning the bunk and the walls. A Police spokesman said the blaze is under investigation by Central CID and would not confirm whether it was an arson attempt by a prisoner in the first cell.

And according to a press release by Police media relations, the matter is the subject of a criminal investigation. As a result of the fire, a Police spokesman said five prisoners had to be taken to King Edward VII Memorial Hospital for smoke inhalation. Three of them were detained for observation, but later released.

Police said they are working with the Department of Works and Engineering to make repairs to the jail area.