A Sudanese man remains in custody this afternoon, Tuesday 9th June, on suspicion of the attempted murder of a man in north Belfast.
At a media facility at Police Service of Northern Ireland headquarters in Belfast, Assistant Chief Constable Ryan Henderson said: “First and foremost, our thoughts are with the victim and his family. Detectives and specialist officers are supporting them at this difficult time.
“He is in hospital with serious injuries to his eyes and slash-wound injuries to his back and face."
ACC Ryan Henderson speaking to media at police headquarters.
“It is also important to acknowledge the bravery of those members of the public who ran before danger to intervene and help the injured man.
“The PSNI position is to provide as much verified information to the public as possible as our investigation continues.
“It happened in the Kinnaird Avenue area on Monday night at around 10.30pm. Officers arrived at the scene within minutes of the report to detain and arrest the suspect and administer first aid. Colleagues from Northern Ireland Ambulance Service attended a short time later.
“The victim was taken to hospital with significant injuries. The suspect - a man in his 30s, who we now understand to be Sudanese - was arrested at the scene on suspicion of attempted murder.
“He is in custody and at this time we not seeking anyone else in connection with this investigation.
“I share the public’s revulsion over the brutal nature of this attack which has created concern across Northern Ireland and further afield. I also understand that there are questions regarding the nature of the attack.
“Throughout today we have been liaising with senior counter-terrorism officials. Due to the nature of the attack, at the stage we have no information to suggest this was terrorist-related. However, we are still at the early stages of our investigation.
“This brutal attack will understandably have sent shockwaves through the community. I want to reassure all our communities, safety is our priority and we are currently engaging with local representatives and residents to provide reassurance and support.
“We understand that there is considerable posting on social media. People have questions and real concerns. But we would ask that the public are mindful of what they view or share online. By sharing footage, this could risk causing further trauma to the injured man’s loved ones and may impact the ongoing investigation.
“We are aware of calls for protest activity across Northern Ireland this evening and continue to monitor the situation and plan accordingly.
“I understand that last night’s attempted murder will leave people feeling a range of emotions from fear to angry. I appeal for calm today. Everyone in Northern Ireland will sadly remember the disorder which took place over the last two years.
“No one needs to see a repeat of this – this only causes damage to local communities and unfortunately young people often get caught up in this disorder. We have one individual arrested who is currently going through the criminal justice process.
“The public can expect to see an increased police presence across Northern Ireland this evening to help, support and reassure all our communities and keep them safe.
“I recognise at difficult time like this, the public will be looking to us for answers, information and reassurance. I and my teams are committed that as best as we during this fast time investigation to provide, clear, factual and accurate information to all our communities across Northern Ireland."
Anyone who witnessed this incident, or who may have captured dash-cam or CCTV footage from the area which could help with their investigation, is asked to contact police on the non-emergency number 101, quoting reference number 1654 08/06/26.
A report can be submitted online using the non-emergency reporting form via www.psni.police.uk/makeareport/ or you can also contact Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111 or online at www.crimestoppers-uk.org/