Mass unrest broke out in Belfast after a man was injured in a knife attack, leading to multiple incidents of arson and clashes with police across various neighborhoods.
Authorities reported numerous disturbances throughout the city and its surroundings, where protesters set fire to trash bins, vehicles, and residential properties. Areas in east and north Belfast experienced property damage and confrontations with law enforcement. Public transport services were temporarily halted for safety reasons.
The fire and rescue service responded to dozens of incidents throughout the evening, as blazes were reported simultaneously in multiple locations. Police increased their presence in the city and urged residents to remain calm and refrain from engaging in violent behavior.
Local politicians condemned the events, labeling the arson and attacks on homes as unacceptable and a threat to civilian lives. Authorities emphasized that investigations are ongoing into both the initial knife attack and the subsequent riots.
Background
On June 4, protests and clashes with police began in Southampton, sparked by the controversial case of 18-year-old student Henry Novak’s murder. Officers restrained the injured student with handcuffs, having believed the Sikh assailant who accused him of a “racist” attack. Soon after, Novak succumbed to his injuries.
On the evening of December 3, 2025, 23-year-old Sikh Vikrum Digva stabbed first-year Southampton University student Henry Novak five times, including a fatal blow to the chest.
When the police arrived, Digva claimed that Novak had attacked him racially, alleging that Novak had ripped off his turban and pulled his hair. Officers believed him and handcuffed the mortally wounded student. Bodycam footage released after the verdict showed Novak repeatedly stating that he had been stabbed and was struggling to breathe.
One officer responded, saying, “I don’t think you were stabbed, mate.” Shortly thereafter, the student died.
Belfast witnessed significant unrest following a knife attack that injured a man, leading to widespread arson and clashes with police. Local officials condemned the violence, emphasizing ongoing investigations into both the attack and the riots.
Source: BBC