Shocking scenes of violent disorder unfolded in Belfast on Tuesday night, with cars, buses, and homes set ablaze following a stabbing in the city on Monday evening. Anti-immigration groups incited the violence after a 30-year-old Sudanese man was charged with attempted murder in connection with the attack on June 8.
Victim in Serious Condition
Stephen Ogilvie, aged in his 40s, remains in a serious condition in hospital with injuries to his eye, face, and back after being stabbed. The suspect has been charged with attempted murder, possession of an article with blade or point in a public place, and threats to kill. He is due to appear at Belfast Magistrates' Court on Wednesday, June 10.
Police Appeal for Calm
Assistant Chief Constable Ryan Henderson of the Police Service of Northern Ireland urged the public to remain calm and avoid risky activities. He stated: "Sporadic pockets of disorder have broken out in a number of locations across Northern Ireland this evening, including incidents in which a number of vehicles have been set on fire." He added that officers are on the ground working with partner agencies to ensure safety.
The disorder involved gangs of masked individuals forcing open doors and setting fire to buildings and vehicles while chanting "foreigners out" after the ethnicity of the charged man became known. The incident is not believed to be terror-related.
Images of Destruction
Hundreds of people gathered on the streets as disorder erupted across the city. Smoke was visible in multiple areas, with firefighters attending numerous property fires. The aftermath on Wednesday morning showed burned-out cars and houses on Lendrick Street in east Belfast, as well as a burned-out bus.
Police have appealed for calm and asked community leaders to encourage peaceful protest and discourage involvement in violence.
