DETECTIVES are appealing for witnesses following an arson attack in east Belfast during the early hours of this morning, Sunday, March 31.

It was reported that at around 12.30 am a mattress had been set on fire in the communal area of an Apartment block in The Mount area.

Police and NIFRS attended and the fire was extinguished.

Scorch damage was caused to the walls and doors in the communal area as a result of the incident.

Detective Sergeant O’Flaherty said: “Thankfully no one was injured as a result of this incident, however I am treating this as arson with intent to endanger life.

“I am asking anyone who was in the area late last night or early this morning to contact Detectives in Musgrave Police Station on 101, quoting reference 53 of 31/03/19.

“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.”