A man believed to be Sudanese was arrested on suspicion of attempted murder after a savage knife attack in north Belfast left a victim with life-threatening injuries, authorities said Tuesday.
The suspect, who is in his 30s, remains in custody following the violence, which unfolded around 10:30 p.m. Monday on Kinnaird Avenue.
Video shared online appeared to show several bystanders confronting the alleged attacker before police arrived, with one person seen holding a hurling stick.
The victim, a man in his 40s, suffered severe wounds to his face, neck, and back and remains hospitalized in serious condition.
Police initially identified the suspect as Somali in an early statement Tuesday but later corrected the information, saying the man is Sudanese. The Police Service of Northern Ireland described the probe as a “fast-time investigation.”
Officials also pushed back against reports circulating online about the victim’s status.
A police spokesperson said officers are “aware of inaccurate online posts regarding the victim’s condition,” but confirmed that he remains in serious condition.
British Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer, long a staunch supporter of third-world migration, condemned the attack and praised those who rushed to help.
“The horrific attack in Belfast last night is sickening,” the prime minister said.
“My thoughts are first and foremost with the victim, and I thank the first responders, including members of the public who intervened.”
Northern Ireland Secretary Hilary Benn called the violence “deeply shocking” and commended those who stepped in.
“I would like to thank the individuals who showed extraordinary bravery in coming to his aid,” said Hilary Benn.
Benn urged residents to remain calm and warned against unrest, citing previous episodes of street disorder in Belfast and Ballymena, County Antrim.
“We all have a responsibility to urge calm while the police do their job, so that the perpetrator of this horrific attack faces the full force of the law,” he said.
Police Service of Northern Ireland Assistant Chief Constable Ryan Henderson said officers have declared a critical incident and are working to determine a motive.
“This brutal attack will have sent shockwaves through the community causing real concern … I want to reassure the local community that we are treating this attack with the utmost seriousness.”
“Our investigation is continuing at pace.”
Henderson said officers reached the scene within minutes and praised the members of the public who intervened to stop the attack.
He said they demonstrated “bravery and community spirit” as they tried to prevent the victim from suffering further injuries.
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