Police investigate potential Islamist terror link to stabbing in Belfast

Police in Northern Ireland are investigating a potential Islamist terrorist link to a stabbing in Belfast earlier this month.

Religious ideology is one of a number of potential motives being investigated, the PA news agency understands.

If it is confirmed, it would be Northern Ireland’s first Islamist terrorist incident.

Detectives are also probing whether a mental health episode or hate were motivating factors.

An 18-year-old man was arrested on Friday in relation to the stabbing near the Ormeau Road at around 7.35pm on March 1.

It is understood the suspect travelled from north Africa, through the UK and Dublin, before arriving in Belfast in September 2023.

Police believe the offender was acting alone and not as part of a cell.

Assistant Chief Constable Davy Beck said: “The suspect had been arrested on suspicion of wounding with intent to do grievous bodily harm and possession of an offensive weapon in a public place, before being detained for the purpose of assessment by mental health professionals.

“He has, of today, been arrested under Section 41 of the Terrorism Act upon his release from the facility.

“The victim, a 51-year-old man, received treatment in hospital and has since been discharged.

“He continues to receive support from specialist officers.

“While I would stress that the motive for the attack has not yet been established, detectives are exploring a number of potential motivating factors, including the possibility that this was a hate crime, a mental health episode or driven by religious ideology.

“At this time, no other persons are being sought in connection with the attack.

“I urge anyone who was in the area at the time or may have information to contact us on 101.

“A report can also be made using the online reporting form via www.psni.police.uk/makeareport.

“Alternatively, information can be provided to Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111 or online at www.crimestoppers-uk.org.”