Belfast, Northern Ireland (HRNW)- Violent anti-immigrant protests erupted in Northern Ireland following an alleged knife attack, with angry crowds setting several homes, vehicles, and a bus on fire.
Police and government officials described the situation as extremely tense and urged the public to remain peaceful and avoid further violence.
According to reports, the unrest began after a Sudanese national was arrested and brought before a court in connection with a suspected knife attack. Following the circulation of a video related to the incident on social media, protests broke out in different parts of the city and quickly escalated into violent clashes.
Police said that hundreds of demonstrators, many with their faces covered, gathered in several areas and attacked law enforcement personnel. Incidents of arson, property damage, broken doors, and smashed windows were reported, particularly in parts of east Belfast.
According to the BBC, a group of around 100 individuals attacked homes in one neighborhood, prompting police to rescue a family from a house that had been set on fire.
Northern Ireland First Minister Michelle O’Neill strongly condemned the violence, calling it unacceptable and shameful that families were being forced from their homes and their properties set ablaze. The British Prime Minister also described the knife attack that sparked the unrest as “deeply distressing.”
Police confirmed that the victim, a man in his 40s, remains hospitalized with serious injuries. The suspect has been charged with multiple offenses, including attempted murder, and is scheduled to appear in court.
Authorities have deployed additional police personnel to restore order and have appealed to residents to remain calm and refrain from actions that could worsen the situation.
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