The family of the man who was stabbed in a knife attack in Belfast, which sparked riots across the city, has called for peace. Stephen Ogilvie, believed to be in his 40s, is in hospital after allegedly being attacked on Monday evening by Hadi Alodid, a 30-year-old Sudanese asylum seeker.
Family Statement
Mr Ogilvie's family said in a statement they were 'devastated by the horrific attack', but pleaded for calm. They added: 'We are aware of the tensions and talk of protests following this incident. We want to make it absolutely clear that overnight unrest is not welcome, and peaceful protest is the only way forward. We have many migrants who make a deeply valuable contribution to our country, including in our healthcare system and hospitality sector, and we depend on them to make our country work. We do not want this terrible tragedy to be used to divide people or fuel hostility.'
Court Hearing
During his first court hearing today at Belfast Magistrates' Court, Alodid was remanded for four weeks and charged with attempting to murder Mr Ogilvie, threatening to kill an NHS radiographer and possession of a knife. Graphic footage was shared across social media after the alleged attack, which took place on Kinnaird Avenue in northern Belfast. The 30-year-old accused is also charged with possession of an article with a blade or point in a public place and making threats to kill.
Neighbors Speak Out
Neighbors told the Daily Mail that Mr Ogilvie, who is in hospital receiving treatment for his severe injuries, was living in the same block of flats as his alleged attacker. One neighbor said: 'He's a vulnerable person, apparently. There's a lot of information swirling around as to what happened. Nobody knows for sure why Stephen was attacked.' Another resident said some of the neighbors 'look out' for Mr Ogilvie. He said the suspect had only lived on the block for around a week or so, claiming it was 'social housing'.
Police Investigation
Detectives have said there is no indication that Monday's knife attack was terror-related. The clip of the attack showed people, including one with a hurling stick, intervening to stop the man attacking the victim. Police later recovered a kitchen knife from the scene.
Suspect's Background
Police have revealed details on the arrested man's immigration status and how he travelled to the UK. Hadi Alodid, from Sudan, entered Northern Ireland across the Irish border in February 2023, having flown to Dublin from Paris. The suspect claimed asylum upon arrival and, in September 2023, was granted leave to remain in the UK until 2028.
Prime Minister's Response
Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer said: 'The horrific attack in Belfast last night is sickening. I have absolutely no tolerance for abhorrent scenes of violence like this on our streets. My thoughts are first and foremost with the victim, and I thank the first responders, including members of the public who intervened.'
