Tensions escalated in Belfast on Tuesday evening as anti-immigration demonstrators set a bus on fire, following a horrific knife attack the previous night. Hundreds of masked protesters gathered in the city, with some breaking away to set commercial bins alight and push them into a Glider bus on Newtownards Road in east Belfast, causing the vehicle to go up in flames.
Knife Attack Details
On Monday night, a man in his 40s was seriously injured in a knife attack, suffering wounds to his eyes, face, and back. Police later arrested a Sudanese man in his 30s on suspicion of attempted murder. The suspect is also charged with possession of a bladed article in a public place and making threats to kill. He is due to appear at Belfast Magistrates’ Court on Wednesday.
Appeals for Calm
Police commanders and political leaders had appealed for calm amid concerns that planned anti-immigration protests would turn violent. PSNI Chief Constable Jon Boutcher warned people against being influenced through social media, urging them to let police do their job. The leaders of Northern Ireland's five largest parties issued a joint statement condemning the attack and appealing for calm.
Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer also condemned the attack, calling it sickening and expressing support for the victim and first responders.
Suspect's Immigration Status
Police revealed that the suspect entered Northern Ireland from the Republic of Ireland 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.
Detectives stated there is no indication the knife attack was terror-related. The victim remains in serious condition in hospital.
