Police asked people to “remain calm” as masked men took to the streets to riot
Homes and cars have been set on fire as violent protests take place across Belfast following a stabbing in the city on Monday night. Stephen Ogilvie, who is in his 40’s, remains in serious condition in hospital with injuries to his eye, face and back after the knife attack.
A 30-year-old Sudanese man has been charged with attempted murder, possession of an article with blade or point in a public place and threats to kill after the incident at around 10.30pm on Monday, June 8.
Police in Northern Ireland have asked the public to “remain calm, act responsibly, and avoid any activity that could place themselves or others at risk” after a night of rioting across Belfast. Don’t miss a court report by signing up to our crime newsletter here
Groups of masked men were seen kicking in doors and setting fires to properties and vehicles as they were heard shouting “foreigners out” due to the ethnicity of the man charged being revealed.
Assistant chief constable of the Police Service of Northern Ireland, Ryan Henderson said on Tuesday evening: “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.
“We are urging everyone to remain calm, act responsibly, and avoid any activity that could place themselves or others at risk. Officers are on the ground, working alongside partner agencies, responding to incidents as they arise and helping to keep people safe.
“We are again appealing for calm and ask all voices of influence within local communities to encourage peaceful protest and discourage any involvement in violence or disorder.”
Police were made aware of numerous social media posts initiating protests spread widely across Northern Ireland.
Anti-migrant groups have been reported as being the instigators of the protests, calling for people to take to the streets of Belfast overnight.
On Tuesday, ACC Henderson said: “Throughout today we have been liaising with senior counter-terrorism officials. Due to the nature of the attack, at the stage we have no information to suggest this was terrorist-related. However, we are still at the early stages of our investigation.
“This brutal attack will understandably have sent shockwaves through the community. I want to reassure all our communities, safety is our priority and we are currently engaging with local representatives and residents to provide reassurance and support.”
The 30-year-old man charged with attempted murder is due to appear at Belfast Magistrates’ Court today, Wednesday June 10.
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