A man in his 30s, believed to be Sudanese, has been arrested on suspicion of attempted murder following a "brutal" knife attack in north Belfast on Monday night. The incident occurred at approximately 22:30 BST on Kinnaird Street, where the victim, a man in his 40s, sustained serious injuries to his face, neck, and back. He is currently hospitalized in serious condition.

Police have declared a critical incident and launched an investigation into the motive behind the attack. Assistant Chief Constable Ryan Henderson of the Police Service of Northern Ireland (PSNI) stated that the "brutal attack will have sent shockwaves through the community causing real concern." He assured the public that the investigation is being treated with the utmost seriousness and is continuing at pace.

Video footage circulating online appears to show a number of individuals, some armed with objects including a hurling stick, confronting the alleged attacker until police arrived at the scene. The PSNI acknowledged the bravery and community spirit demonstrated by members of the public who intervened to protect the injured man from further harm. Police were on the scene within minutes of the incident.

Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer described the attack as "sickening" and stated there would be "absolutely no tolerance for abhorrent scenes of violence like this on our streets." He expressed his thoughts for the victim and thanked the first responders and members of the public who intervened. The Northern Ireland Ambulance Service confirmed that one emergency ambulance and an advanced paramedic were dispatched to the scene.

Assistant Chief Constable Henderson appealed to the public to refrain from sharing footage of the attack. The investigation aims to establish the full circumstances and motive behind the "appalling" incident. The PSNI is committed to ensuring the safety and security of the local community and is working to provide reassurance.

Further details regarding the suspect's background and the specific motive are expected to emerge as the investigation progresses. The incident has prompted concern among residents, highlighting the need for continued vigilance and community cooperation with law enforcement efforts.

The PSNI has stated that the investigation is ongoing and they are treating the attack with the highest priority. Updates on the victim's condition and the investigation's progress are anticipated.

This incident underscores the challenges faced by law enforcement in responding to violent crime and maintaining public safety, particularly in the wake of such a shocking event.