Belfast sees violent unrest after stabbing as victim’s family urges calm

Northern Ireland authorities and the family of stabbing victim Stephen Ogilvie are appealing for an end to anti-immigration unrest that has gripped parts of Belfast. The violence, which saw demonstrators burn homes, buses, and cars, erupted after an alleged stabbing attack by a Sudanese man.

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We want to make it absolutely clear that overnight unrest is not welcome, and peaceful protest is the only way forward.

The victim's family issued a statement urging demonstrators to refrain from further violence and to embrace peaceful protest as the only way forward. They highlighted the significant contributions migrants make to the country's healthcare and hospitality sectors, stating, "we depend on them to make our country work."

Stephen Ogilvie, in his 40s, remains hospitalized with serious injuries to his face and back, including the loss of an eye, following the attack in north Belfast. Footage of the incident circulated widely on social media, despite police requests to avoid sharing it.

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We have many migrants who make a deeply valuable contribution to our country, including in our healthcare system and hospitality sector, and we depend on them to make our country work.

Authorities have charged 30-year-old Hadi Alodid with attempted murder and possessing a knife. The incident has drawn condemnation from political leaders, including UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer, who described the chaos as "shocking and completely unacceptable" and vowed that those responsible would face legal consequences.

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It is clear that people were targeted last night because of their background and I will not tolerate it. Those responsible will feel the full force of the law.