Water Cannon Used to Control Belfast Demonstrations Following Knife Attack
Water cannon fired in latest disorder – On Wednesday, a water cannon was activated to manage crowds in Northern Ireland, marking the second day of unrest after a knife attack in north Belfast. Riot police faced intense resistance from protesters who hurled bricks, bottles, and wooden debris at a key junction near the city center. Although additional officers were deployed, the level of chaos appeared less severe compared to Tuesday’s incidents.
Protests and Targeted Acts
Demonstrators gathered at the Sandyknowes roundabout in Glengormley, approximately eight miles north-west of Belfast. Video footage captured individuals clad in black, donning face coverings, dismantling driveways and fences to use as projectiles. A large infrastructure vehicle was seen engulfed in flames, while bins were set ablaze. The crowd also attempted to ignite a derelict building, launching petrol bombs at police barriers.
Asylum Seekers as a Focal Point
Reports suggest the protests aimed to draw attention to a hotel accommodating asylum seekers. Despite the intensity, most demonstrations in regions like Ballymena, Londonderry, and Antrim remained peaceful. In east Belfast, around 150 people assembled under heavy police presence, with few arrests recorded.
Legal Proceedings and Victim’s Condition
On Wednesday, Hadi Alodid, a 30-year-old from Sudan, appeared in court charged with attempted murder. The attack on Monday left Stephen Ogilvie, a 40-something man, with a lost left eye, damaged right eye, and injuries to his neck and back. Ogilvie’s family stated he was stable after “social media misinformation” fueled the unrest. They urged peaceful demonstrations as the solution.
Political Responses to the Crisis
Leaders across the political spectrum voiced concern. Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer emphasized the attack’s severity but called the subsequent violence and arson “unjustified.” Conservative leader Kemi Badenoch highlighted the need for politicians to “secure our borders,” while Northern Ireland Secretary Hilary Benn warned of the fear inflicted on children.
“They have been asked to show their credentials to masked men. They have been unable to get into work.”
RCN director Rita Devlin described how nurses, including overseas staff, faced intimidation during Tuesday’s disturbances. Meanwhile, the Stormont Executive released a statement condemning the unrest, urging calm and acknowledging its impact on communities.
PSNI Chief Constable Jon Boutcher urged citizens to avoid escalating tensions, emphasizing the need for restraint. As the situation unfolds, authorities continue to assess the balance between protest and public safety.
