Detectives investigating a potential Islamist terror attack in Northern Ireland said the suspect travelled from North Africa through Britain.
Specialist officers are probing the attack in Belfast on the evening of March 1, and are understood to be working towards the possibility the stabbing was motivated by religious terrorism.
An 18-year-old man was arrested after the stabbing near the Ormeau Road at around 7.35pm on March 1.
Police believe the offender was acting alone and not as part of a cell.
Ormeau Road in West Belfast (file pic)
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Assistant Chief Constable Davy Beck said: “The suspect was arrested on suspicion of wounding with intent to do grievous bodily harm and possession of an offensive weapon in a public place, before being detained for the purpose of assessment by mental health professionals.
"He remains in their care at this time. The victim, a 51-year-old man, received treatment in hospital and has since been discharged.
"He continues to receive support from specialist officers.
"While I would stress that the motive for the attack has not yet been established, detectives are exploring a number of potential motivating factors, including the possibility that this was a hate crime, a mental health episode or driven by religious ideology."
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Detectives from the PSNI have launched an investigationPAHe continued: "At this time, no other persons are being sought in connection with the attack.
"I urge anyone who was in the area at the time or may have information to contact us on 101.
"A report can also be made using the online reporting form via www.psni.police.uk/makeareport. Alternatively, information can be provided to Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111 or online."
Local police teams are believed to be working closely with immigrant communities in the city amid concerns the incident could lead to heightened tensions, reports BelfastLive.
