A suspect arrested over a series of arson attacks in a central Douglas street has been released on police bail.

The detective leading the inquiry into the deliberate fires being set at homes on Mona Street described the offences as ’extremely serious’ - and insisted public safety was the ’utmost’ priority.

Police patrols were stepped up in Mona Street in early January after a number of deliberate fires were lit.

But this week, two further fires were set at houses on the street in the early hours of Wednesday morning. Damage was caused to doors at the two premises.

Now police have confirmed that the person they arrested in connection with the ongoing fires has been bailed pending further inquires being made.

Detective Inspector Neil Craig said: ’These offences are extremely serious, and the continued safety of the public is our utmost priority.

’I can confirm that the person that was arrested on Wednesday evening spent a considerable amount of time in police custody but has been bailed pending the outcome of further inquiries that we must make on the back of their arrest.

’I understand the frustrations that must be felt by the public in our being unable to provide any further details about the suspect at this time.

’However, this decision is one which has been taken to preserve the integrity of the investigation while also being balanced against that of wider public protection issues.’

DI Craig appealed for witnesses to the two most recent fires that are believed to have been set between 2.30am and 3.30am on Wednesday (January 30)

’I’d encourage anyone who may have witnessed anything suspicious in and around the Mona Street area between these times to please make contact with the CID investigation team at Douglas police headquarters,’ he said.

’I would also be keen to speak to anyone who may have been driving in and around the Mona Street area between these times who may have dash cam footage of that part of their journey.’

On Sunday, January 6, a white Ford Focus parked in Mona Street was set alight at about 9.15pm.

Fires were lit at the front door of a property in Mona Street at an unknown time the following day and at a neighbouring home at 2.50am on Wednesday, January 9.

Fortunately, fire crews were able to deal with the incidents quickly and as a result no one was hurt.