Two houses have been badly damaged in a suspected arson attack in west Belfast.
No one was injured when the fire broke out in the early hours of this morning (Thursday) at Ardmonagh Parade.
Police say a sofa outside a house had been set on fire and the blaze subsequently spread to the house itself.
Police are appealing for information.
Detective Sergeant Conlan said police received the report just before 2.30am.
“Police attended along with colleagues from the Northern Ireland Ambulance Service and Northern Ireland Fire and Rescue Service.
Two people were in the house when the fire started, and one person in the adjacent house. Thankfully no one was injured.
“Two houses – this one and the adjacent property – have been left badly damaged, while two other nearby properties have suffered extensive smoke damage,” said the Detective Sergeant.
“Enquiries are continuing and we are appealing to anyone with information, or who witnessed anything suspicious in the area, to contact police on 101, quoting reference number 152 of 01/08/19.
“Alternatively, information can be provided to the independent charity Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111, which is 100% anonymous and gives people the power to speak up and stop crime,” added the Detective Sergeant.