Belfast anti-immigrant protests turned violent on Tuesday, June 9, following the police’s charging a 30-year-old man with attempted murder over a stabbing in North Belfast, Northern Ireland.
The Police Service of Northern Ireland said the suspect was charged with attempted murder, possession of a bladed article in a public place and threats to kill. Additionally, he was due before Belfast Magistrates’ Court on Wednesday.
The unrest followed a stabbing at about 10:30 p.m. local time on Monday, June 8, on Kinnaird Avenue in North Belfast. Notably, that was 2:30 a.m. Tuesday in Pakistan.
The victim, a man in his 40s, remained in hospital with serious injuries to his eyes, face and back, according to The Irish News. After the attack, he continued to receive treatment.
Crowds gathered in parts of Belfast and set bins, vehicles and a bus on fire, according to The Guardian. The outlet said unrest broke out after anti-immigration demonstrators gathered following the charge.
Prime Minister Keir Starmer of the United Kingdom called the stabbing “sickening” and said he had no tolerance for violence on the streets. Furthermore, he said his thoughts were with the victim and thanked first responders.
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Northern Ireland First Minister Michelle O’Neill condemned attempts to exploit the attack. She said innocent people were being targeted while trying to live, work and raise families in Northern Ireland.
Assistant Chief Constable Ryan Henderson urged the public to remain peaceful. PSNI also asked opinion leaders to discourage involvement in violence or disorder.
