Police have arrested a 35-year-old man following a firearms-related incident in the Coates Row area of east Belfast early on Sunday, 20 July.

During the disturbance, one officer was scalded by a liquid substance, while another required treatment for smoke inhalation.

Detective Inspector Harvey confirmed that at approximately 02:15 on Sunday morning, officers responded to a report from the Northern Ireland Fire and Rescue Service (NIFRS) of a man armed with a knife inside an apartment. Firefighters had initially been attending a report of a deliberate fire at the property when the occupant threatened them with a knife at the door. Upon arrival, officers, including members of the Armed Response Unit, attempted to detain the suspect. During this process, the man threw a liquid substance over one officer, causing scald injuries to his chest and chin. Both the injured officer and another who suffered from smoke inhalation required hospital treatment and are currently receiving appropriate support. The suspect was subsequently arrested at the scene on suspicion of grievous bodily harm with intent, arson to endanger life, and other related offences, and he remains in custody.

Detective Inspector Harvey praised the swift response of the officers to protect both the public and emergency service partners, adding that "threatening and violent behaviour towards emergency workers is totally unacceptable and will not be tolerated." Police enquiries are ongoing, and authorities are appealing to anyone with information that could assist their investigation to contact them on 101, quoting reference number 187 20/07/25, or to submit a report online via www.psni.police.uk/makeareport/

Alternatively, information can be provided anonymously to Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111 or online at www.crimestoppers-uk.org/.