Istanbul, July 25 (RHC)-- A massive fire has erupted near a NATO military base in western Turkey, with authorities investigating whether they are facing an act of sabotage.

The fire started on Sunday evening in an area near the city of Izmir.  It engulfed a nearby wooded area and spread closer to NATO's military base because of strong winds.

Some reports say the fire has been contained, though. Other reports say the NATO base, the Allied Land Command (LANDCOM), is still threatened by the raging fire.  Reports say the fire may engulf several populated areas.  It has already hit a home for the elderly and its neighboring garden but no casualties are reported.