The family of Stephen Ogilvy, who was attacked in Belfast, has shared a statement supporting migrants after he suffered severe injuries from an alleged Sudanese assailant. In comments made through MP Philip Brett, they emphasized the importance of immigrants in British society and called for peace and unity, as reported by multiple sources.
They expressed gratitude towards those who helped Ogilvy during the incident, stating, “Your quick actions undoubtedly saved his life. We will never forget what you did for him in that moment.” They also cautioned against responding to the attack with violence, advocating for peaceful demonstrations instead.
“We want to make clear that a night of unrest is not welcome and peaceful protests are the only way forward,” the statement continued. The family urged against using Ogilvy’s tragedy to drive a wedge among communities, highlighting the valuable contributions of immigrants to fields such as healthcare and hospitality.
The suspect, identified in court as Hadi Arlodid, reportedly traveled from Sudan to Paris, then to Dublin, before arriving in Belfast by bus in February 2023. Reports indicate he had been granted a five-year temporary asylum visa. During a court hearing, he was remanded in custody until a follow-up appearance set for July 8. Ogilvy works as a radiology technician in the National Health Service.
In the aftermath of the attack, riots ensued, resulting in injuries to five individuals, including both civilians and police officers. Northern Ireland’s Police Chief Constable John Boucher stated that around 100 people are under investigation for their involvement in the riots.
Prime Minister Michelle O’Neill condemned the violence, declaring that the burning of a family’s home by masked individuals was “disgusting and vile.” Earlier, she and Deputy Prime Minister Emma Little-Pengery called for calm amid escalating tensions at Stormont Palace.
Boucher advised residents to be cautious of online agitators and emphasized that issues surrounding immigration should be addressed through political discussions, not through violence. “All concerns about immigration must be discussed through political channels,” he noted.
