A 30-year-old man is set to appear in court charged with attempted murder following a stabbing attack in Belfast that ignited a night of violent disorder. The accused, who is Sudanese, faces additional charges of possession of a bladed article in a public place and making threats to kill. He is due at Belfast Magistrates' Court on Wednesday.
Violent disorder erupts
On Tuesday evening, anti-immigration demonstrations across Northern Ireland descended into chaos after Monday's knife attack in the north of the city. In east Belfast, a Glider bus was set alight, leading to the suspension of all bus and train services. On Lendrick Street, several cars were torched, and firefighters had to evacuate residents from houses that caught fire. Near the Ligoniel Road area, multiple homes and vehicles were set ablaze, and a police car was burned in Portadown.
Some residents were forced to flee their homes as the disorder escalated. Police Service of Northern Ireland (PSNI) Assistant Chief Constable Ryan Henderson stated that officers worked with partner agencies to respond to incidents and ensure public safety.
Political condemnation
Political leaders strongly condemned the violence. Northern Ireland's First Minister Michelle O'Neill described it as "outright thuggery," adding that "groups of masked men burning families out of their homes is nothing less than disgusting cowardice." Deputy First Minister Emma Little-Pengelly said, "Taking frustration at the evil actions of a person out on those who had no part in it is utterly wrong." Northern Ireland Secretary Hilary Benn remarked, "The scenes of disorder we have witnessed in some parts of Northern Ireland this evening are only damaging communities and putting innocent lives at risk. There is no justification at all for this type of destruction and thuggery."
Victim's condition and investigation
The victim of Monday's knife attack, a man in his 40s, remains in serious condition at a hospital, being treated for severe injuries to his eye, face, and back. Detectives have stated there is no indication the attack was terror-related. The PSNI has launched a "critical incident" response. The attack was captured on video, showing a man stabbing the victim's head and neck while he lay on the ground. Bystanders, including one wielding a hurling stick, intervened to stop the assault. A kitchen knife was recovered at the scene in the Kinnaird Avenue residential area near the Antrim Road in north Belfast.
Suspect's immigration status
Police disclosed details about the suspect's immigration status. He entered Northern Ireland across the Irish border in February 2023 after flying to Dublin from Paris. The suspect claimed asylum upon arrival and was granted leave to remain in the UK until 2028 in September 2023.
