Four unignited Molotov cocktails were found near a fire-damaged Dunedin flat, with police calling the unresolved arson attack "pretty nasty".
Firefighters were called to the Shetland St property at 9pm on Wednesday, after reports a Molotov cocktail had been thrown into the entrance of a flat.
A scene examination of the property indicated two Molotov cocktails containing accelerant were thrown on to the property.
Four unused ones were recovered nearby, Detective Sergeant John Hedges said.
"I think it had some serious overtones ... it is pretty nasty," Det Sgt Hedges said.
Police wanted to hear from people who saw anyone acting suspiciously in the area.
More information was expected to be released today.
Det Sgt Hedges declined to comment further.
Pact Group director of corporate services Paul Chamberlain told the Otago Daily Times the flats, which accommodate people with mental health issues, were visited by the Fire Service earlier that day.
"Apparently [an unknown person] was making too many inquiries of some of the fire officers, so there is a suspicion he may be the culprit," Mr Chamberlain said.
"The statement I must make is that it was none of our clients."
The resident of the flat targeted was a heavy sleeper and had to be roused by a staff member who was alerted by the alarms, and helped clients through the designated escape route.
That client spent the night in a vacant flat and most of yesterday morning in pyjamas until clothes were sourced.
Mr Chamberlain said the damage to the flat was estimated at $20,000 to $30,000.
The building was insured.
It was fortunate the resident had closed all the doors to the flat so the fire was confined to a small area, and did not spread to adjoining flats. "It could have been so much worse ... a real catastrophe".
