An 18-year-old man is in a critical condition in hospital after being stabbed at the site of a controversial bonfire in Belfast.
The victim was one of two men stabbed in the New Lodge area, where the disputed fire was burned late last night.
The teenager was stabbed in the back while a 39-year-old man suffered wounds to his arm and hip. The older man’s injuries are not thought to be life-threatening.
Two men aged 21 and 28 were arrested in the early hours of this morning at an address off the Oldpark Road on suspicion of several offences, including causing grievous bodily harm with intent.
Police Service of Northern Ireland Chief Inspector Kelly Moore urged witnesses to come forward.
She added: “We are aware of footage circulating on social media and this will be examined as part of the wider investigation.”
The incidents came as large crowds gathered to watch the bonfire, which was set alight to mark the anniversary of the introduction of the controversial policy of internment without trial of suspected republicans in 1971.
Earlier on Thursday, police abandoned an operation to remove the structure before it was lit amid concerns innocent bystanders could be hurt in disorder.