‘They are thugs thriving on division’: Belfast residents voice disgust and shame at rioters

Residents of Belfast have reacted with anger and disgust at the disorder in the city, sparked by the stabbing of Stephen Ogilvie earlier this week. Hadi Alodid, 30, has been charged with attempted murder. Hundreds of people took part in the riots, setting fire to cars, homes, and a bus, and throwing bricks and petrol bombs at the police.

Many respondents said the disorder disrupted healthcare for their relatives. Adam from Ballycastle said his 72-year-old mother was in hospital after being hit by a car, but he could not visit her due to danger since Tuesday evening. A woman from Belfast, who asked not to be named, said her 67-year-old husband with Parkinson's disease was due to be admitted to the Royal Victoria Hospital, but the hospital is not accepting admissions due to the unrest.

Ada Ní Deoradháin, 26, an Irish-Polish national who moved to Belfast at age 11, said: “These events reflect a history that still lingers. Too often people believe they can commit these acts without consequence. These are not protests; they are targeted acts of intimidation and violence that echo the 1970s.” She also noted that far-right rhetoric from politicians and billionaires encourages such actions.

Another anonymous resident said: “Over the past 24 hours, normal life has become increasingly tense. Feelings of shock have evolved into shame at the appalling behaviour of a group of thugs who thrive on division and mayhem. These individuals do not represent Belfast, a city known for being warm and welcoming.” He emphasized that innocent families, including children forced to leave their homes, are suffering.

Not all respondents condemned the disorder. A 42-year-old east Belfast resident said “the effects of mass uncontrolled migration are felt everyday,” citing strains on services and the collapse of his culture.