Man Stabbed in Belfast; Family Condemns Unrest, PSNI Vows Action Against Incitement
A man was stabbed in north Belfast, leading to an attempted murder charge. His family thanked interveners and condemned subsequent violent protests. PSNI Chief Constable Jon Boutcher vowed to prosecute those inciting online disorder, while Secretary of State Hilary Benn criticized inflammatory language.
A 40-year-old man was charged with attempted murder after a stabbing on Kinnaird Avenue in north Belfast on Monday night. The victim, also in his 40s, remains in serious condition with severe eye, face, and back wounds. His family expressed devastation and profound gratitude to locals who intervened, stating their quick actions saved his life.
Following the incident, protests turned violent, leading to cars and homes being set alight, forcing residents, including a two-month-old baby, to flee. The victim's family condemned the unrest, emphasizing that peaceful protest is the only way forward and that Northern Ireland benefits from its migrant population. They urged privacy and asked for information to be directed to the PSNI.
PSNI Chief Constable Jon Boutcher announced that 200 extra officers would arrive in Northern Ireland and vowed to pursue those who incited rioting online, referencing successful prosecutions from similar incidents last year. He warned against being swayed by online figures who know nothing about Northern Ireland's history. Two PSNI officers were injured during the unrest.
Northern Ireland Secretary of State Hilary Benn, joining Boutcher, condemned the violence, highlighting that families forced from their homes had lived in the region for over 20 years. He stressed the responsibility of leaders to use careful language and avoid fanning disorder, particularly criticizing references to «alien cultures» given migrants' contributions to the country.