Peru Lima shopping centre fire: Five people killed

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At least five people have been killed after a fire broke out in one of the most expensive shopping centres in Peru's capital Lima, officials say.

The blaze started in a recently-renovated cinema where a film screening was taking place for journalists.

The cause of the fire is still being investigated.

The incident comes ahead of a global summit later this week in Lima which will be attended by the presidents of the US, Russia, China and Japan.

Interior Minister Carlos Basombrio told local media that sound-proof walls in the theatre appeared to be flammable, which allowed the fire to spread.

A large black mushroom cloud rose above the seaside Larcomar shopping centre as people with breathing difficulties were helped into ambulances.

At least one firefighter was also carried away on a stretcher.

Larcomar, managed by Chilean company Parque Arauco SA, said it was co-operating fully with the authorities and would close the centre for two days.

The British embassy in Lima, which is less than a block away from the mall, has been closed, the British government said in a statement.