FIVE police officers have been treated in hospital for the effects of breathing in smoke following a fire in north Belfast.

Detective Sergeant Stephen Gardiner said: “Officers responded to the blaze at a block of flats in Flax Street at around 5.40am this morning, Saturday, September 29.

“The officers who were first to arrive at the scene entered the building and evacuated residents.

“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.”