Twelve police officers injured in second night of unrest in Northern Ireland

Twelve police officers were injured and 16 people were arrested on the second night of unrest in Northern Ireland following Monday's Belfast knife attack, underscoring a cycle of violence. Northern Ireland Secretary Hilary Benn said the disorder was smaller than Tuesday night but condemned what he termed racist thuggery, stressing the need to maintain order. Rioters deployed water cannons, bricks, petrol bombs and makeshift projectiles as clashes spread through Newtownabbey and along the Antrim Road corridor. A Department for Infrastructure vehicle was set alight near the Sandyknowes roundabout, and rioters attempted to target homes, buses and other urban infrastructure. The family of Stephen Ogilvie, the stabbing victim who lost an eye, described the violence as 'disgusting' while urging restraint and accountability. Hadi Alodid, 30, appeared in court charged with attempted murder in connection with Monday night's assault, with prosecutors outlining the alleged sequence of attacks. Police urged witnesses to review footage and contact investigators, saying images from Tuesday's disturbances could help identify those involved. Hilary Benn reaffirmed the government's commitment to peace and appealed for community cooperation as investigations continue and security remains a priority for the region.