Homes and apartments in Downpatrick were evacuated this morning following a blaze at a block of flats.
Police believe the fire was purposely set and are treating the incident on Pegasus Walk as "arson with intent to endanger life".
They said they were alerted to the fire by Northern Ireland Fire and Rescue Service around 9.30am on Sunday, July 18.
Detective Sergeant Stewart said: "We received a report by colleagues from the NIFRS of a fire at a block of flats at around 9.30am.
"Residents in nearby houses and flats had to be evacuated, however no one was injured during the incident.
"This fire could have resulted in serious injuries, even loss of life and could easily have spread to the adjoining properties.
"We are treating this as arson with intent to endanger life and I am asking anyone with information, or who noticed any suspicious activity around that time, to contact us on 101 quoting reference number 811 of 18/07/21."
Information can also be provided to Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111 or online at www.crimestoppers-uk.org.
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