Masked rioters in Northern Ireland have hurled bricks and wheelie bins at police as violence erupted for a third consecutive night following Monday's knife attack in Belfast. Police deployed water cannons to restore order.
Water Cannon Deployed in Newtownabbey
Bricks, wheelie bins, and traffic cones were thrown at police near the Sandyknowes roundabout in Newtownabbey, Co Antrim. Footage showed rioters wearing face coverings and all-black clothing advancing on police on Antrim Road, attempting to strike officers with missiles. Some attacked police vehicles, but the crowd retreated after water cannons were brought in.
A large vehicle was set ablaze as demonstrators faced off with police. Videos on social media showed protesters trying to march to the Chimney Corner Hotel, with riot police and vans deployed to control the demonstrations.
The Police Service of Northern Ireland (PSNI) confirmed water cannons were used to preserve public order after missiles were thrown at officers.
Unrest Spreads to Derry
In Derry, police reported items set on fire on Ardmore Road. Extra officers were deployed following significant disturbances on Tuesday night, which occurred after Monday's savage assault. Public transport was halted and some schools closed early on Wednesday due to concerns over further unrest.
Court Appearance of Suspect
Hadi Alodid, 30, appeared in court charged with attempted murder related to Monday's knife attack, in which victim Stephen Ogilvie lost an eye. Mr. Ogilvie, in his 40s, remains in serious condition in a Belfast hospital, believed to be in an induced coma.
Alodid faced charges of attempted murder, threats to kill an NHS radiographer, and possession of a knife. The court heard Mr. Ogilvie lost his left eye and sustained severe cuts to his head, face, and back. District Judge Stephen Keown denied bail due to concerns about significant public disorder if released, given strong public feeling about the incident. The judge warned that anyone planning further unrest should be prepared to go to prison.
Political Response
Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer pledged to crack down on anyone fuelling division, describing the rioting as shocking and completely unacceptable. Security minister Dan Jarvis stated that reports of ethnic minorities being targeted were sickening. Starmer emphasized that people were targeted because of their background and that those responsible would face the full force of the law.
Police Reinforcements
PSNI Chief Constable Jon Boutcher announced 200 additional officers would be deployed on Wednesday night. The force also warned that some social media users were posting address details online, causing distress to families. Sharing personal information with intent to endanger others may be a criminal offence.
Appeal for Calm from Victim's Family
Mr. Ogilvie's family released a statement saying they were devastated by the horrific attack but appealed for calm. They stated that overnight unrest is not welcome and that peaceful protest is the only way forward. They acknowledged the valuable contribution of migrants to the country and urged that the tragedy not be used to divide people or fuel hostility.
