By Paul Higgins
A man in his 30s, believed to be a Somalian national, has been arrested for attempted murder following a knife attack in North Belfast on Monday night.
According to a police statement, the injured man, who is in his 40s, remains in hospital in what has been described as a serious condition.
He has been left with “significant injuries to his face, neck and back,” the police spokesperson said.
Shocking video footage has emerged of the alleged assailant sitting astride the injured man, striking at his head, neck and face with what appears to be a knife during the incident at Kinnaird Avenue.
People try to help him, with one man repeatedly striking at the assailant with a Hurley stick before police arrive at the scene.
Issuing a statement today (Tues), Assistant Chief Constable Ryan Henderson said: “This is a deeply concerning assault and I have declared this a critical incident. We have commenced an investigation to establish 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. Community safety is our priority and we are currently engaging with local representatives and residents to provide reassurance and support.
“Our officers were on the scene within minutes and we wish to acknowledge the members of the public who strived to save the man from further attack. Their willingness to step forward to help another person shows incredible bravery and community spirit.
“We are also aware of footage circulating online and we would strongly urge members of the public not to share or repost these images. Doing so risks causing further trauma to the injured man’s loved ones and may impact the ongoing investigation. Our thoughts remain with the victim’s family at this deeply distressing time.
“As our investigation continues we will provide further updates.”
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/.
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CLANRYE NEWS 