Brussels attack: Five arrested over explosion at crime laboratory

Arsonists were attempting to destroy files, Belgian authorities say

Five people have been arrested and are being questioned over a suspected arson attack at Brussels’ criminology institute.

Attackers blew up the crime lab in the Belgian capital in what is thought to be a likely attempt 'to destroy evidence', the city’s prosecutors said.

There were no casualties as a result of the attack.

“Five people were detained in the vicinity and are being heard,” spokeswoman Ine Van Wymersch told a news conference.

She said the likely aim of the attack was to destroy “several files” in the building.

The institute carries out forensic examinations in criminal cases and is linked to the Belgian federal justice ministry.

Earlier reports said the attackers had detonated a bomb during the attack, but the Brussels prosecutor's office rejected reports of a bomb attack.

“It's probably not terrorism. It's a criminal act,” Ms Van Wymersch said. “I cannot confirm that there was any bomb.”

Belgium remains on high terror alert following an attack claimed by Isis on Brussels airport and the city’s metro in March in which 32 people were killed by three suicide bombers.