Northern Ireland Police Urge Information on Claims Officers Advised Nurses to Show ID to Masked Men

Police in Northern Ireland are urging anyone with information about claims that officers advised nurses to show ID to masked men during recent disorder to come forward. This follows Stormont First Minister Michelle O'Neill contacting PSNI Chief Constable Jon Boutcher, demanding a full investigation into these allegations. Police stated no direct contact has been made regarding such claims, but they are engaging with healthcare worker representatives.

The claims emerged last week amidst violence in Belfast, sparked by a knife attack in north Belfast where Stephen Ogilvie, 40s, lost an eye. Sudanese national Hadi Alodid, 30, was charged with attempted murder. The subsequent anti-immigration disorder saw homes, a bus, and cars set on fire, with people targeted based on race. There have been multiple reports of foreign national healthcare workers being intimidated.

Ms. O'Neill called the suggestion of masked gangs demanding IDs from nurses «vile and disgusting», particularly the claim that police near Mater Hospital advised staff to comply. Health Minister Mike Nesbitt also heard «horrendous stories» from Mater Hospital staff, including a young nurse negotiating barricades, which he raised with Chief Constable Boutcher. Assistant Chief Constable Ryan Henderson confirmed police received reports of vehicles stopped by masked gangs and are checking records for specific reports of officers advising ID checks. He urged anyone with information to contact 101.

While the race-related violence has largely subsided, isolated incidents occurred over the weekend, including criminal damage and an arson attack. Approximately 3,000 demonstrators attended a Together Against Hate rally outside Belfast City Hall on Saturday.