A man has been seriously injured in north Belfast in a stabbing that British Prime Minister Keir Starmer has described as “sickening.” The attack occurred on Monday night, prompting a swift response from the Police Service of Northern Ireland (PSNI).
Details of the Incident
Police received reports of the stabbing at approximately 10:30 PM on Monday. The injured man, aged in his 40s, was taken to a hospital, where his condition is described as serious. He sustained significant injuries to his face, neck, and back.
A suspect, a man in his 30s believed to be of Somali origin, has been arrested on suspicion of attempted murder. He remains in police custody as investigations continue.
Official Statements
Prime Minister Keir Starmer expressed his outrage, stating: “The horrific attack in Belfast last night is sickening. I have absolutely no tolerance for abhorrent scenes of violence like this on our streets. My thoughts are first and foremost with the victim, and I thank the first responders, including members of the public who intervened.”
Assistant Chief Constable Ryan Henderson urged the public not to reshare images or footage of the stabbing that are circulating online, emphasizing the need to respect the victim’s privacy and avoid hindering the investigation.
North Belfast MP John Finucane said: “I am shocked following a horrific attack in north Belfast last night. My thoughts are with the individual who has been taken to hospital following serious injuries, and I hope they make a full recovery. I have spoken with police today and would urge anyone with information about this appalling attack to come forward and assist the investigation.”
Local Democratic Unionist councillor Jordan Doran expressed deep concern, stating: “Many residents have contacted me expressing concerns about community safety and seeking reassurance following this incident. Those concerns are entirely understandable. People deserve to feel safe in their homes and communities, regardless of where they live. What is beyond dispute is that violence of this nature has no place in North Belfast. I will be engaging with the PSNI and relevant agencies as a matter of urgency to ensure residents receive the information and reassurance they deserve.”
Scene and Investigation
The scene outside an apartment complex on the lower Antrim Road area remained cordoned off on Tuesday morning, with markers visible on the ground where the attack took place. Police are appealing for any witnesses or anyone with dashcam or CCTV footage to come forward.
The PSNI confirmed that the injured man is in his 40s and remains hospitalized in a serious condition. The arrested suspect is a man in his 30s, believed to be Somalian, and is being held on suspicion of attempted murder. The investigation is ongoing.
