Protesters set a Glider bus ablaze on the Newtownards Road in east Belfast on Tuesday evening as disorder erupted during an anti-immigration demonstration. The protest was organized in response to a stabbing attack that occurred in the city on Monday night.
Violence Erupts at Demonstration
Masked individuals pushed burning commercial bins into the Glider bus, causing it to catch fire. A large crowd had gathered for the scheduled protest, which turned violent. Similar demonstrations have taken place across Northern Ireland, with multiple roads blocked by groups of masked protesters.
Suspect Charged with Attempted Murder
A 30-year-old Sudanese man has been charged with attempted murder in connection with the Belfast knife attack. He also faces charges of possession of a bladed article in a public place and making threats to kill. The accused is due to appear at Belfast Magistrates’ Court on Wednesday. In Northern Ireland, authorities do not release the names of accused persons before their court appearance.
The victim, a man in his 40s, remains in serious condition in hospital, receiving treatment for severe wounds to his eyes, face, and back.
Widespread Condemnation and Calls for Calm
Political leaders and police commanders have condemned the attack and appealed for calm. The Police Service of Northern Ireland (PSNI) has declared a critical incident. Detectives stated there is no indication the attack was terror-related.
The incident was captured on video, showing a man stabbing the victim’s head and neck while he lay on the ground. Bystanders, including one with a hurling stick, intervened. A kitchen knife was recovered at the scene.
Immigration Status of Suspect
Police revealed that the suspect entered Northern Ireland from the Irish Republic in February 2023, having flown to Dublin from Paris. He claimed asylum upon arrival and was granted leave to remain in the UK until 2028 in September 2023.
PSNI Chief Constable Jon Boutcher briefed reporters alongside First Minister Michelle O’Neill, deputy First Minister Emma Little-Pengelly, and Justice Minister Naomi Long. Boutcher warned against being influenced “from afar through social media” and urged the public to let police do their job.
Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer condemned the attack, calling it “sickening” and expressing support for the victim and first responders.
The leaders of the five largest parties at Stormont issued a joint statement, uniting in condemnation and urging anyone with information to assist police. They also appealed for calm.
The scene near Kinnaird Avenue remained cordoned off on Tuesday, with markers visible on the ground where the attack occurred.
