Three people arrested over Belfast protests but 'more will surely follow', Security Minister says

Three people have been arrested after widespread disorder in Belfast last night after a knife attack in which victim Stephen Ogilvie lost an eye.

Security Minister Dan Jarvis told the Commons: "I would like to pay tribute to the police and the other emergency services for their work last night."

"Faced with an extraordinarily challenging situation, they responded with great courage and they are owed our thanks.

"Our message to those responsible for last night’s disorder is altogether different. To them, we say this, 'you will be caught, and you will face the consequences of your actions'."

He continued: "As of this morning, there have been three arrests, but more will surely follow. To those considering joining further disorder, my message is clear, do not do it. You will be held accountable for your actions. You will feel the full face of the law."

The security minister said there was "no excuse for the disgraceful scenes of violence and disorder that occurred in Northern Ireland last night" describing alleged attacks against ethnic minority people as "sickening".

He said: "The attack on Monday evening has understandably caused anger and profound concern. However, there is a line between concern and disorder, and we must never allow it to be crossed.

"So, let me be absolutely clear, there is no excuse for the disgraceful scenes of violence and disorder that occurred in Northern Ireland last night."

Northern Ireland Secretary Hilary Benn has said there are questions "for the authorities in Ireland" in relation to the Sudanese man alleged to have committed the knife attack in Belfast on Monday.

The PSNI has said Hadi Alodid entered Northern Ireland across the Irish border in February 2023 having flown to Dublin from Paris.

He claimed asylum upon arrival and in September 2023 was granted leave to remain in the UK until 2028.

Mr Benn told reporters at PSNI HQ: "I called Minister (Helen) McEntee last night because I was keen to brief her on what had happened, given what we now know about how the suspect arrived in Northern Ireland.

"Obviously there are questions for us, some of which have been asked today and there will be questions too to the authorities in Ireland about what they know about the individual, because all of that may contribute to the investigation process that is rightly continuing, being led by the chief constable."

More to follow...