Sir Keir Starmer has described a knife attack in north Belfast as 'sickening', declaring he will have 'absolutely no tolerance for abhorrent scenes of violence like this on our streets.' The incident occurred on Kinnaird Avenue around 10.30pm on Monday, with the Police Service of Northern Ireland (PSNI) responding to reports of a stabbing.
The injured man was taken to hospital for treatment, and another man was arrested in connection with the attack, remaining in custody. The scene outside an apartment complex off Kinnaird Avenue in the lower Antrim Road area remained cordoned off on Tuesday morning, with markers visible on the ground where the assault took place.
Political Reactions and Community Shock
Political representatives have expressed shock within the local community. North Belfast MP John Finucane said his thoughts are with the victim, stating: 'I am shocked following a horrific attack in north Belfast last night. My thoughts are with the individual who has been taken to hospital following serious injuries, and I hope they make a full recovery. I have spoken with police today and would urge anyone with information about this appalling attack to come forward and assist the investigation.'
Local DUP councillor Jordan Doran said he was 'left shocked and deeply concerned' by footage circulating online following the stabbing. He noted: 'Many residents have contacted me expressing concerns about community safety and seeking reassurance following this incident. Those concerns are entirely understandable. People deserve to feel safe in their homes and communities, regardless of where they live.'
Call for Community Reassurance
Doran continued: 'What is beyond dispute is that violence of this nature has no place in North Belfast. I will be engaging with the PSNI and relevant agencies as a matter of urgency to ensure residents receive the information and reassurance they deserve.'
Police have urged anyone who witnessed the incident or has dashcam or CCTV footage to come forward and assist the investigation. The PSNI continues to appeal for information as inquiries progress.
