Belfast: Three more individuals were taken into custody on Thursday night in Northern Ireland, as tensions following a severe knife attack in Belfast began to subside.

According to Anadolu Agency, police informed the Belfast Telegraph that despite these additional arrests, the level of unrest had decreased significantly over recent days, with no major incidents of public disorder being reported. The arrests have now brought the total number of detainees to 19, with several individuals already facing charges and court proceedings.

Reports indicate that over 100 people assembled for a protest in Whiteabbey, while a smaller contingent gathered in east Belfast. In north Belfast, authorities were called to the scene after a house was deliberately set on fire, a move believed to be an intentional arson attack.

During a visit to Mater Hospital, Northern Ireland First Minister Michelle O'Neill condemned the violence, stating, "There can be absolutely no justification for abuse, racism, or intimidation directed at any member of staff, whether carrying out their duties, travelling to work or on their way home." The visit was prompted by incidents of threats, intimidation, and racially charged attacks on healthcare workers amidst the rioting.

In light of the unrest, ethnic minority communities in the region have reached out to their respective embassies and consulates out of concern for potential racially motivated violence. The disturbances originated after a serious knife attack in Belfast.

In connection with the attack, a 30-year-old man from Sudan appeared in court on Wednesday, charged with attempted murder. The victim, 44-year-old Stephen Ogilvie, sustained serious injuries, including the loss of his left eye, as a result of the assault.