At least 17 people were injured in a massive fire that broke out over an oil leak from the Shuqair-Mostorod pipeline next to a busy highway in a Cairo suburb.

The fire, on the side of a motorway, ignited after a spark caused by cars driving by triggered crude that was leaking from the pipe. Videos that emerged online showed thick black smoke billowing from the scene, where a number of cars caught on fire. Witnesses said more than 20 cars were torched and abandoned.

Authorities swiftly moved to close off the area and brought the glaze under control, the ministry statement added, noting an investigation has been launched.