Appeal for witnesses after fire at flat in Portsmouth

We are appealing for witnesses after a fire at a flat in Portsmouth yesterday (May 12).

Police were called just before 4pm to a report of the fire in Grafton Street, which led to a large number of flats being evacuated.

No one was injured or required treatment, and no one was in the flat at the time.

Officers are investigating the exact cause of the fire, and we are keen to hear from anyone who can assist our enquiries.

DC Hollie Loader said: "Our initial enquiries have led us to believe this fire was deliberately started, and officers will remain in Grafton Street today as we continue to investigate.

"Fortunately, nobody was injured and the flat in question was empty at the time.

"We are keen to speak with anyone who may have any information about the fire, or who saw or heard anything suspicious yesterday afternoon.

"If you can assist, please call 101, quoting the reference 44220186268. Alternatively, you can call Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.

"You can also submit information online by going to https://www.hampshire.police.uk/contact/af/contact-us/us/contact-us/provide-more-information-to-be-added-to-a-crime-report/"