Five PSNI officers have been hospitalised following an apparent arson attack in north Belfast.
Emergency services were called to the fire which broke out at a block of flats in Flax Street at around 5:40am this morning (Saturday).
Officers entered the building to evacuate residents. The police officers were taken to hospital for the effects of breathing in smoke.
Detective Sergeant Stephen Gardiner said one man was removed from the building by Fire Service personnel wearing breathing apparatus.
“He was subsequently arrested on suspicion of arson endangering life, before being transferred to hospital for treatment for smoke inhalation.
“I would commend the bravery of the responding officers who dealt with this incident, for their selflessness and commitment to protecting the public and ensuring the residents of the building were removed from harm’s way and were kept safe,” he added.