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Further Information on Belfast Attack
10 June 2026
Type
Written Ministerial Statement
Department
Northern Ireland Office
At a Glance
Issue Summary
The statement addresses the recent attack in Belfast, providing updates on the incident and condemning the subsequent disorder.
Action Requested
Hilary Benn extended full support to the Police Service of Northern Ireland (PSNI) and encouraged individuals with information to contact the police. He also reiterated the government's commitment to enforcing the law strictly and pursuing deportation for foreign nationals who commit crimes.
Key Facts
- The attack occurred on 8 June in north Belfast.
- The suspect is a Sudanese national with leave to remain until 2028, granted refugee status in 2023 after entering from Europe via Dublin.
- The PSNI charged the suspect with attempted murder, possession of an article with a blade or point, and threats to kill.
- Nearly 70,000 individuals were returned or removed from the UK between July 2024 and March 2026, representing a 41% increase compared to the previous period.
- Of these returns, nearly 5,900 were foreign national offenders (FNOs), marking a 13% increase.
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