Detectives today made four arrests on suspicion of attempted murder after a 16-year-old boy from Ipswich was stabbed in what is believed to have been a targeted attack.

A 62-year-old man, 22-year-old man, and two boys aged 16 and 17 were among five people arrested in Ipswich today.

A 46-year-old woman was also detained on suspicion of assisting an offender.

Four of the arrests are understood to have taken place at properties in Ipswich.

None of those currently in custody are among the three teenagers police appealed to trace yesterday.

The 16-year-old victim was originally being treated in a hospital’s intensive care unit after sustaining multiple stab wounds to his body and legs.

Police now say his condition is described as stable.

Officers were called at around 10.40pm on Saturday to reports that the boy had been stabbed in Landseer Road after it is believed he went to a property for help.

The offenders were believed to have left the scene of the attack on foot, heading in the direction of Nacton Road.

The five suspects have been taken to Martlesham Police Investigation Centre where they currently remain for questioning.

Detectives are continuing to appeal to trace three teenage boys, described as white and aged between 14 and 16 years old, who were seen walking towards town along Landseer Road from Nacton Road at the time of the incident.

They may have vital information to assist the investigation.

The senior investigating officer, Detective Chief Inspector Jeff Yaxley, said: “We have a team of detectives working to establish the full details of what occurred on Saturday night, but we currently believe this to be a targeted attack.

“I am appealing for anyone who witnessed this incident, or who may have any information that could assist our enquires, to make contact immediately.

“Local residents should expect to see an increased police presence in the area, as we will have officers out conducting extra patrols to provide reassurance to the community.”

Anyone with information is asked to contact South CID at Landmark House on 101 quoting crime reference number 37/55760/17. Alternatively telephone Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.