Disorder has erupted in Northern Ireland following a knife attack that left a man in serious condition. The incident occurred on Kinnaird Road in north Belfast at approximately 10:30 PM on Monday. A 30-year-old Sudanese national has been charged with attempted murder and is scheduled to appear in court on Wednesday.
What is unfolding in Belfast?
Crowds have gathered in various locations across the capital, including the Newtownards Road in the east and near the Crumlin Road roundabout. Several fires have broken out, and protesters have confronted police. A bus and multiple vehicles have been set on fire. Police Service of Northern Ireland assistant chief constable Ryan Henderson stated: 'Sporadic pockets of disorder have broken out in a number of locations across Northern Ireland this evening, including incidents in which a number of vehicles have been set on fire. We are urging everyone to remain calm, act responsibly, and avoid any activity that could place themselves or others at risk.'
What has sparked the scenes?
Graphic video footage circulating online appears to show a man stabbing the head and neck of a victim on the ground. The clip shows bystanders, including a man with a hurling stick, attempting to stop the attack.
Who is the victim?
The victim is a man in his 40s who suffered significant injuries to his eyes and slash wounds to his face and back. He remains in serious condition in hospital.
Who is the accused?
The accused is a 30-year-old Sudanese national, initially believed by police to be from Somalia. He lived near the scene of the attack. He has been charged with attempted murder, possession of a bladed article in a public place, and making threats to kill. He is due at Belfast Magistrates' Court on Wednesday. The man was granted leave to remain in the UK on September 28, 2023, after applying for asylum upon arriving in Northern Ireland in February of that year. He had traveled to Belfast from Dublin in the Republic of Ireland.
What are the police investigating?
Police have ruled out the attack as terror-related but emphasized that the investigation is in its early stages.
Has there been a response?
The incident has drawn widespread condemnation. Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer said: 'The horrific attack in Belfast last night is sickening. I have absolutely no tolerance for abhorrent scenes of violence like this on our streets. My thoughts are first and foremost with the victim, and I thank the first responders, including members of the public who intervened.'
