Armed response officers were called to Innisfree News in central Belfast on 21 September following a ‘serious incident’ that left at least one person with stab wounds.

An altercation between members of the public took place within the store, owned by NFRN member John Larkin, and outside on Castle Street.  The retailer confirmed no staff were harmed during the incident.

The assault follows other recent incidents on Castle Street including the sentencing of a ‘prolific’ shoplifter, attempted robberies and a violent unprovoked attack on a busker.

Larkin told RN: “There’s are ongoing issues with incidents related to drug use in the street,” he said, adding that it was affecting his and neighbouring businesses. “It’s putting people off coming here.”

No motivation for the stabbing is known. Belfast Live reported that three men were in custody.