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Supermarket destroyed in 2024 riots damaged again after being targeted in Belfast riots

Published June 10, 2026 · Updated June 10, 2026 · By Susan Martin

Supermarket Destroyed in 2024 Riots Suffers Fresh Damage Amid Belfast Unrest

Supermarket destroyed in 2024 riots damaged - Amid escalating tensions in Belfast, a local supermarket has once again fallen victim to rioters, this time following its prior destruction during the 2024 riots. The latest incident, captured in footage released today, reveals the entrance of the store reduced to ash, with metal gates violently torn apart by attackers last night. This marks a second wave of damage for the establishment, which had already endured significant harm during the initial unrest.

Riots Triggered by Anti-Immigration Protests

The current unrest in Belfast traces its roots to the anti-immigration protests that erupted in 2024, fueled by the aftermath of the Southport stabbings. These demonstrations, which saw hundreds gather in the streets, sparked widespread disorder and targeted several locations across the city. Among them was the supermarket, which became a focal point of the riots, reflecting the growing frustration within the community over perceived immigration issues.

"I no longer feel safe living in Northern Ireland," said Jamal Ghabes, the butcher who had operated the store, as he recounted his decision to relocate his business. The incident underscored the deepening sense of insecurity among locals, prompting him to move his operations elsewhere in Belfast to escape the violence.

Unrest Spreads Beyond the Supermarket

While the supermarket's plight has dominated headlines, the riots have left a broader impact on Belfast. Homes and vehicles have been set ablaze, with chaos spreading across neighborhoods. The violence was ignited after a man sustained severe injuries in a knife attack on Kinnaird Road in north Belfast at approximately 10:30 PM on Monday. Neighbors have since identified the victim as Stephen Ogilvie, a local resident who became the center of the unrest.

A 30-year-old Sudanese national has been arrested in connection with the attack. Initially, authorities reported the suspect as being from Somalia, but this was later corrected. The individual resides near the incident location, suggesting a possible link to the broader anti-immigration sentiment that has fueled the riots. He faces charges of attempted murder, possession of a blade in a public place, and making threats to kill.

The attack has not only intensified local tensions but also sparked renewed unrest in both Ireland and the United Kingdom. Reports indicate that a police land rover was attacked on the Crumlin Road, while a Glider bus was set on fire on Newtownards Road. Several other incidents have occurred, including unprovoked confrontations with law enforcement and the ignition of multiple fires across the city.

Community Voices Amid the Chaos

Residents have shared their experiences of the riots, highlighting the personal toll of the violence. Jamie Corry, who has called Lendrick Street home for over a decade, described witnessing the chaos firsthand. "I saw the flames growing larger and larger before I moved down the street to watch it all unfold," he recounted, emphasizing the fear and confusion that gripped the community.

The destruction of the supermarket and other properties has raised questions about the future of Belfast's businesses and the safety of its citizens. While the ownership of the store remains uncertain, the interior has been left in ruins, with shelves overturned and glass shattered. This incident serves as a stark reminder of the unrest that has gripped the city, with rioters targeting not only commercial spaces but also residential areas.

Broader Implications of the Riots

The riots have sparked discussions about the role of social media in amplifying tensions and the need for clearer community dialogue. While the immediate cause of the unrest remains the Southport stabbings, the connection between the events and the riots in Belfast has drawn attention to the complex interplay of local and national issues. As the investigation continues, authorities are working to identify additional suspects and understand the motivations behind the attacks.

The supermarket's destruction has also highlighted the economic impact of the riots. With a focus on Middle Eastern cuisine, the store had become a hub for cultural exchange and community support. Its repeated damage underscores the vulnerability of businesses in areas with heightened tensions. Meanwhile, the victim's family has expressed concern over the aftermath, with some neighbors recalling the emotional weight of watching personal belongings burn.

As the situation in Belfast evolves, related stories continue to emerge. A man whose home was torched during the riots described the horror of watching his late father's possessions reduced to ashes. Additionally, the suspect in the Belfast stabbing has appeared in court, where he was formally charged with attempted murder. The community's resilience has also been evident, as an LGBT+ group defied the violence by marching through the streets, carrying pride flags despite them being set on fire earlier in the week.

The incident has prompted calls for increased security measures and community engagement to prevent further unrest. While the immediate danger may have subsided, the underlying tensions persist, with many residents expressing fear for their safety. The supermarket's fate, along with that of other businesses and homes, remains a focal point of the ongoing discussions about the city's stability and future.

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The combination of targeted attacks and widespread chaos has left Belfast in a state of flux. As the community grapples with the aftermath, the focus remains on restoring order and addressing the root causes of the unrest. The destruction of the supermarket, in particular, symbolizes the deepening divide and the challenges facing local businesses in the wake of the riots.