Police officer scalded during firearms incident – man arrested

A 35-year-old man has been arrested following what police described as a “firearms-related incident” in East Belfast that left one officer with scald injuries and another requiring treatment for smoke inhalation.

Emergency Services attacked in Coates Row standoff

Police were called to an apartment in the Coates Row area shortly after 2.15am on Sunday, 20 July, after a report from the Northern Ireland Fire and Rescue Service (NIFRS) that a man armed with a knife was threatening firefighters responding to a deliberate fire at the property.

According to Detective Inspector Harvey, when police arrived — including the Armed Response Unit (ARU) — the suspect resisted attempts to detain him and escalated the incident by throwing a liquid substance over an officer, causing scald injuries to his chest and chin.

Another officer was also treated at the scene for smoke inhalation, with both requiring hospital treatment following the incident.

The suspect was arrested at the scene on suspicion of grievous bodily harm with intent, arson with intent to endanger life, and other related offences. He remains in custody as investigations continue.

“Totally unacceptable”

Detective Inspector Harvey condemned the attack:

“Threatening and violent behaviour towards emergency workers is totally unacceptable and will not be tolerated.

“Our officers responded swiftly to this report to protect both the public and our emergency service partners.”

The Police Service of Northern Ireland (PSNI) is appealing for information from the public to assist with the ongoing investigation.

Anyone with information is urged to contact police on 101, quoting reference number 187 20/07/25. Reports can also be made via the PSNI’s non-emergency reporting form at www.psni.police.uk/makeareport, or anonymously through Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111 or at www.crimestoppers-uk.org.