The unrest follows anti-immigration protests earlier in the day, leading to widespread damage and accusations of hate crimes.
A cafe and supermarket in south Belfast have been left severely damaged by fire following violent clashes on Saturday night. The incidents, which continued into Sunday morning, came after anti-immigration protests earlier in the day, where tensions between anti-Islamic protesters and anti-racism demonstrators escalated.
In addition to the fires, several cars were burnt out, and firefighters were called to tackle multiple deliberate fires in the Donegall Road area. As the cleanup began on Sunday morning, the manager of a local supermarket, Bashir, spoke out, claiming the Muslim community was being targeted. He stated, “People attacked this place, racism against Islam and Muslims, especially the Muslim community.” He also criticised the police response, saying, “What kind of police are letting the people burn everything down?”
The violence erupted following earlier unrest when an anti-immigration protest moved through the city. A confrontation occurred at Belfast City Hall between anti-Islamic protesters and those attending an anti-racist rally, during which fireworks and missiles were thrown. The protesters then marched towards the university area, where further clashes broke out with residents of Lower Ormeau. A business in the Botanic area was attacked, and a hotel had its windows smashed.
The Police Service of Northern Ireland (PSNI) is treating the reports of criminal damage as hate crimes and has made two arrests. There had been social media calls for protests in response to the murders of three young children in Southport, which were connected to the unrest in Belfast.
Political leaders quickly condemned the violence. Stormont leaders, including First Minister Michelle O’Neill and Justice Minister Naomi Long, called the incidents “unacceptable,” while Northern Ireland Secretary Hilary Benn praised the police response. DUP leader Gavin Robinson also condemned the violence, stating that lawlessness and violence would not be tolerated.
SDLP MLA Matthew O’Toole emphasised the importance of a strong policing response, especially as far-right groups not connected to Belfast were involved in the destruction. He reiterated the city’s commitment to diversity, saying, “Our city, particularly the south of the city, is proud of its diversity and will defend it against hate.” DUP MLA Edwin Poots also condemned the violence but noted that many of those involved were not local, and expressed frustration with the government’s failure to address the community’s needs.
Poots added, “Acts of violence and destruction of the area which we are trying to get investment into is totally counterproductive.” He also pointed out the housing crisis and lack of access to essential services, stressing the need for government action to address these concerns and prevent further violence.
