Emergency services were called to a "suspected arson" attack in West Belfast on Monday night.
The Northern Ireland Fire and Rescue Service and the PSNI attended the blaze on Ross Street just before midnight last night after reports of a fire at a derelict building.
Chief Inspector Brannigan said: "A report was received of a fire at a disused building in Ross Street at approximately 11.45pm last night (Monday 21st June).
“Officers responded and attended the scene, together with officers from Northern Ireland Fire and Rescue Service.
“Four flats were damaged as a result of the fire, which was dealt with by NIFRS.
“Whilst the flats were empty at the time of the incident, they were extensively damaged."
Chief Inspector Brannigan continued: "We believe that this fire was started deliberately, and as such, a reckless act of behaviour which could have had a devastating impact on those people living in the local community.
“I would appeal to anyone involved to stop and think about the consequences of such actions. You are risking your own life and the lives of others, as well as putting unnecessary pressure on emergency services.
A spokesperson for the Northern Ireland Fire and Rescue Service said: “The call was received of a derelict building alight at 11.38 pm and we had three fire engines present and one turntable ladder.
“The call was finished at 1.43 am.”
Lower Falls Community Safety Support Forum shared a statement on the incident on their Facebook page.
It read: "Last night, after midnight, the houses at Ross Street were set on fire. Fire fighters were at the scene for over three hours trying to control the flames and prevent fire from spreading to the other properties.
"We ask that you avoid this area until Emergency Services are finished at the scene.
"We will provide updates throughout the day."
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