People fled an Alinga Street nightclub with breathing difficulties, and eye and skin irritation after a chemical substance, believed to be capsicum spray, was allegedly released early on Sunday morning.

At about 1.30am police police evacuated the premises and, with the help of witnesses, arrested a 20-year-old woman. A search of her possessions located a can of oleoresin capsicum spray inside a black handbag. Police believe this was the substance released.

The woman has been charged with possession of an offensive weapon with intent and causing public harm. She will appear in court at a later date.