A 13-year-old boy has been arrested in connection with a fire at the Nations Club on Union Street earlier this month. The fire, which took place on Saturday, March 1, left the former city nightclub in a perilous state. Several emergency vehicles, including at least four fire engines and five police cars, were at the scene at the height of the blaze.

The venue, located between the long-closed Choo Choo's club and the KFC takeaway, was at risk of further damage after the fire spread into the roof space, raising concerns that the flames could reach the neighboring buildings.

One resident, a hospital worker living above the KFC, was left homeless after severe damage to her ceiling. She had to find alternative accommodation. The building itself was gutted, with the first and second floors damaged so badly that there were fears of structural collapse. Firefighters were hesitant to enter the property due to these concerns.

After the fire, the area surrounding the three buildings at the Octagon was cordoned off. Police later confirmed that the fire was being treated as suspected arson. Following an investigation, a 13-year-old boy was arrested.

A spokesperson for Devon and Cornwall Police issued a statement: 'A boy aged under 16 has since been arrested on suspicion of arson with recklessness as to whether life was endangered. He has since been released under investigation. Inquiries are ongoing.'

The police are urging anyone who saw or heard anything suspicious around the time of the incident to contact them online or by calling 101, quoting crime reference 50250052579.