Emergency services swarmed a street in Ipswich yesterday evening following an incident. Police officers were called to Princes Street in the town just before 8.45pm on Friday, July 31, following reports of a suspected explosion at a block of flats, which the force said caused damage to several windows.

Other 999 crews were also in attendance, including Suffolk Fire and Rescue and the East of England Ambulance Service. The incident prompted the evacuation of residents at the property, Suffolk Constabulary said in a statement issued overnight.

Moreover, Princes Street was closed "for the safety of the public", the force added. No injuries were immediately reported.

An arrest was made shortly after 9pm yesterday. Police said the force will continue to carry out enquiries to establish the circumstances of the incident.

In a statement released before 1am on August 1, Suffolk police said: "At approximately 9:05pm an 18-year-old man was arrested on suspicion of arson/criminal damage with intent to endanger life. He has been taken to Martlesham Police Investigation Centre for questioning, where he remains.

"Enquiries continue to establish the circumstances of the incident, however no injuries have been reported.

"Motorists are advised that a diversion is currently in place, as Princes Street is expected to remain closed overnight."

Anyone with information relating to the incident is asked to contact police quoting CAD 416 of 31 July via the force's website, 101 or, anonymously, via Crimestoppers.