A fire which caused significant damage in Darwin’s CBD this morning is being treated as suspicious.

Police and Fire and Rescue Service members attended the blaze in West Lane just before 2:00 am.

Detective Senior Sergeant Chris Board of the Serious Crime Squad said the fire started outside an abandoned building adjoining the Go Sushi Train restaurant.

“Fire crews contained the blaze but not before smoke and water damage were caused to the Go Sushi Train restaurant. The quick response by the NTFRS prevented the fire from spreading further to neighbouring businesses.” said Detective Senior Sergeant Board.

“Guests from a nearby hotel were evacuated as a precautionary measure.”

“West Lane remains closed as investigators assess the scene however the West Lane carpark has been reopened to motorists.”

Police urge anybody who may have witnessed anything suspicious in the area at the time of the fire, to contact Police on 131 444 or Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000