Islamic terrorist motive for stabbing being investigated

Police are investigating what is understood to be a possible Islamic terrorist motivation for a stabbing in south Belfast earlier this month.

A 51-year-old man was injured in the attack close to the Ormeau Road area on 1 March. He has since been discharged from hospital.

Police Service of Northern Ireland (PSNI) Assistant Chief Constable Davy Beck said a motive had not been established but police were exploring a number of factors, "including the possibility that this was a hate crime, a mental health episode or driven by religious ideology".

An 18-year-old man was arrested on suspicion of wounding with intent to do grievous bodily harm and possession of an offensive weapon in a public place.

He was arrested following the attack but is now being detained in a mental health facility.

It is believed that he is from North Africa and that in May 2023 he travelled to Heathrow Airport and then to Dublin.

From Dublin he made his way to Belfast, arriving in September 2023.

BBC News NI understands that the PSNI is working with counter terrorism police in Britain and also liaising with Gardaí (Irish police) in the Republic of Ireland.

Police said the victim continues to receive support from specialist officers.

No other individuals are being sought in connection with the attack.

Police have asked anyone with information to get in touch.