Belfast (Somalia Today) — Police in Northern Ireland said Tuesday that a Sudanese man had been arrested on suspicion of attempted murder after a brutal knife attack in Belfast left another man seriously injured and sparked widespread shock.
The Police Service of Northern Ireland had initially said the suspect was believed to be Somalian, but later clarified that the man in custody was Sudanese.
“As our investigation has progressed, we can also confirm that the man in custody is Sudanese and not Somalian, as initially believed,” police said in a fresh statement.
“This is a fast-time investigation, and we will continue to provide further updates to the public in due course.”
The attack took place in the Kinnaird Avenue area of north Belfast shortly after 10:30 pm on Monday.
Police said the suspect, a man in his 30s, was arrested at the scene. The victim, a man in his 40s, remains in hospital in serious condition with injuries to his face, neck and back.
Assistant Chief Constable Ryan Henderson said police had declared the case a “critical incident” and were still working to establish a motive.
“This is a deeply concerning assault,” Henderson said.
“This brutal attack will have sent shock waves through the community, causing real concern. I want to reassure the local community that we are treating this attack with the utmost seriousness.”
Public intervened
The incident drew national attention after graphic footage circulated widely on social media.
The video appeared to show members of the public intervening during the attack, including one bystander who used a hurley, a wooden stick used in the Irish sport of hurling, to stop the attacker.
Police praised those who stepped in, noting that officers reached the scene within minutes.
“Our officers were on the scene within minutes, and we wish to acknowledge the members of the public who strived to save the man from further attack,” Henderson said.
“Their willingness to step forward to help another person shows incredible bravery and community spirit.”
British Prime Minister Keir Starmer condemned the attack as “horrific” and “sickening”.
“I have absolutely no tolerance for abhorrent scenes of violence like this on our streets,” Starmer said.
“My thoughts are first and foremost with the victim, and I thank the first responders, including members of the public who intervened.”
Police urge calm
Police urged the public not to share or repost the footage, warning that it could deepen the trauma for the victim’s family and affect the investigation.
“Doing so risks causing further trauma to the injured man’s loved ones and may impact the ongoing investigation,” Henderson said.
“Our thoughts remain with the victim’s family at this deeply distressing time.”
Police also dismissed inaccurate posts about the victim’s condition, confirming that he remained alive and in serious condition in hospital.
The attack has heightened concern in Belfast, with officials warning against misinformation and possible unrest after the footage spread online.
Northern Ireland Secretary Hilary Benn told lawmakers that people had the right to peaceful protest, but warned that disorder would only stretch police resources and harm local communities.
He said members of the public who intervened during the attack had shown “the very best of humanity”.
Police appealed for witnesses, or anyone with dashcam or CCTV footage from the area, to contact investigators.
They said officers would continue to engage with local representatives and residents as the investigation continues.
Correction: Police clarified that the man in custody is Sudanese and not Somalian, as initially believed. We have updated this article to reflect that clarification.
