British Minister after the violence in Belfast: “Racist”
Violent protests have shaken Belfast for several days in a row.
At the same time, there are growing calls for calm from politicians who say the violence is racist.
– If you target people because of their skin colour, how can you describe it as anything else? says Hilary Benn, Secretary of State for Northern Ireland.
During the night towards Thursday, the police used water cannons, among other things, to disperse crowds. At the same time, demands for calm are growing.
British Prime Minister Keir Starmer and several Northern Irish politicians have condemned the violence. Britain's Secretary of State for Northern Ireland, Hilary Benn, describes the events as racist riots and says they have created great concern among ethnic minorities in the province.
– If you target people because of the colour of their skin, how can you describe it as anything else? It is racist violence, Benn told Sky News after being asked if the violent scenes should be described as racial riots rather than protests.
He says many people in Northern Ireland are now living with a palpable fear.
– It is difficult to convey the genuine sense of fear among ethnic minorities here in Northern Ireland after witnessing these scenes. There are reports of people being stopped in their cars and asked about their nationality, and of nurses feeling uneasy on their way to work. This is terrible, he says.
Family: “Absolutely devastated”
The family of the man injured in Monday’s attack have also spoken out.
In a statement, conveyed by Phillip Brett from the Democratic Unionist Party (DUP), they describe how they are “completely devastated” by what has happened.
At the same time, they thank the people who intervened during the attack and believe that their quick action probably saved the man’s life. The family also extends special thanks to the emergency services and medical staff for their efforts.
In the statement, the family urges the public to refrain from violence and emphasizes that peaceful protests are the only way forward. They also emphasize that they do not want the tragedy to be used to create division or increase hostility towards migrants, who they describe as an important part of Northern Irish society.
FACTS
It has happened in Belfast
Violent protests and riots: After a knife attack in Belfast, the city has been shaken by violent protests. The demonstrations have degenerated into violence, with fires and stone-throwing at the police. The protests began as a reaction to the knife attack in which a Sudanese man is suspected of attempted murder.
Targeted at immigrants: The demonstrations have had an anti-immigration tone, with rioters targeting homes and vehicles belonging to migrants. This has led to several residential buildings and vehicles being set on fire.
Police response: In order to deal with the unrest, police have used water cannons and rubber bullets to disperse the masked protesters. Despite these measures, violence has continued for several days.
Attack list found: Police have discovered a list on social media of addresses of homes that were to be attacked, which has caused great concern among the residents of Belfast. Many families and homeowners have expressed their concern and fear of further attacks.
Spread to other cities: The protests have not only been limited to Belfast but have also spread to other cities such as Londonderry. This has led to further concern and calls for calm from politicians and police.
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