The city of Belfast was left shaken on Sunday evening after a violent double stabbing took place at a bar in West Belfast. Heavily armed police launched an overnight manhunt in search of the suspect, who fled the scene after attacking two men. The incident, which occurred in the Northumberland Street area, has led to widespread concern about safety in the community as law enforcement continues its search for the perpetrator.

The Incident: A Violent Attack Followed by a Manhunt

Shortly after 9 pm on Sunday, the Police Service of Northern Ireland (PSNI) received reports of a violent altercation in a bar near Northumberland Street. What began as a verbal argument quickly escalated when the suspect, after leaving the scene, returned armed with weapons and stabbed two men. One victim is in his 20s and the other in his 40s. Both men were rushed to the hospital with non-life-threatening injuries.

The PSNI provided a description of the suspect, stating he was wearing a dark navy or grey puffer jacket, a salmon pink t-shirt, and jeans. Despite a heavy police presence, including armed response units storming an apartment in the nearby North Howard Street area, no arrest has been made.

Community on Edge: Fear After a Violent Night

The attack, which took place close to the Falls Road, has sparked fear in the community. Residents reported seeing heavily armed police entering an apartment using battering rams, but their search came up empty. The brazen nature of the attack, combined with the suspect’s ability to evade arrest, has left many on edge. PSNI spokespersons have appealed to the public for any information that could lead to the suspect’s apprehension.

A police spokesperson said, “Our investigation is ongoing, and we urge anyone who was in the area or witnessed anything to come forward. We need the community’s help to ensure this dangerous individual is brought to justice.”

A Shocking Crime With Lingering Tension

Belfast, a city with a turbulent past, has worked hard to rebuild peace and safety in recent years. However, incidents like this double stabbing remind residents that violence still lurks beneath the surface. Police efforts to catch the suspect have been relentless, but the fact that he remains at large has left the community uneasy.

This shocking crime comes at a time when many in Northern Ireland are grappling with rising concerns about public safety. Just days before this attack, there were other reports of violent incidents, increasing the pressure on local law enforcement to act swiftly and efficiently.

The Search Continues

As of Monday morning, the manhunt for the suspect continues. Both victims are expected to recover, but the emotional scars left on the community will take time to heal. The PSNI is urging anyone with information, no matter how small, to come forward and assist in their investigation. With tensions high and the suspect still at large, West Belfast remains on edge.

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