‘Partially-dressed man' arrested on suspicion of arson and vehicle theft in Belfast
An armed response team attended the incident along with local officers as they believed the suspect was a threat to the public.
Reports of a man matching a similar description attempting to break into a Loopland Park property were received a short time later.
A 30-year-old man was subsequently arrested nearby.
PSNI Detective Sergeant McVeagh said: "Our enquiries established that the back door of a residential property in Euston Street had been kicked in before petrol was poured on the door and floor and set alight.
"Thankfully, no-one was inside the home at the time. Damage was caused but our colleagues at Northern Ireland Fire & Rescue Service extinguished the blaze."
Police believe the suspect was involved in the theft of a grey Peugeot 208 stolen at around 9.40pm on July 27 from a carpark on the Newtownards Road.
"On Monday morning, 28th July, the same vehicle was seen being driven dangerously in the Hopewell Avenue area of the city by officers on patrol,' Detective Sergeant McVeagh continued.
'The vehicle failed to stop for officers when signalled to do so, and was then driven deliberately at a police vehicle.
"The police vehicle was damaged and three officers sustained minor injuries while the suspect vehicle made off from the scene.
"The man was arrested on suspicion of a number of offences including arson with intent to endanger life, taking and driving away a motor vehicle, criminal damage and assault on police. He has since been released on bail while our enquiries continue.
"The consequences of any of these actions could have been much more serious. We want to appeal to anyone with information, including CCTV dashcam or other relevant footage, to contact us on 101."
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