North Belfast stabbing: Antrim and Newtownabbey Council facilities closing early ahead of 'planned protests'
Antrim and Newtownabbey Borough Council has announced its facilities are to close earlier than normal on Tuesday (June 9) ahead of planned protests following a brutal stabbing in north Belfast.
A Sudanese man in his 30s has been arrested on suspicion of attempted murder following a serious assault involving a knife in the Kinnaird Avenue area on Monday (June 8), shortly after 10.30pm.
Police say the suspect remains in custody, while the injured man, aged in his 40s, is in hospital where his condition is described as serious. The attack has left the victim with significant injuries to his face, neck and back.
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.”
Following the incident, which has drawn condemnation from across the political spectrum, police say they are aware of calls for protests and have appealed for calm.
In response to the possible protests, Antrim and Newtownabbey Borough Council issued this statement on Tuesday: “Following last night’s incident in North Belfast and in light of a number of planned protests across Northern Ireland this evening, all council facilities will close today at 5.30pm to ensure the safety of our staff and customers.
"This includes all leisure centres and household recycling centres. For full details, please visit: antrimandnewtownabbey.gov.uk/service-updates .
"All services will resume as normal tomorrow. Thank you for your understanding and cooperation.”
Meanwhile, Libraries NI said it had taken the operational decision to curtail evening library services at all its branches from 6:00pm due to the potential for disruption on Tuesday evening.
Normal service is expected to be provided from Wednesday, June 10.