Man Sent for Trial Accused of Attempted Murder in Belfast Knife Attack

Hadi Alodid has been sent for trial accused of attempting to murder a man in a knife attack in Belfast.

The 31-year-old appeared by video link from Maghaberry Prison before Deputy District Judge Peter Prenter at Belfast Magistrates’ Court on Wednesday.

Judge Prenter said he was satisfied there was a prima facie case to answer and returned the case to Belfast Crown Court, although no date was set for Alodid to be arraigned.

Alodid, of Duncairn Avenue, is accused of attempting to murder 40-year-old Stephen Ogilvie on 8 June.

The court has previously heard that police arrived to find Alodid on top of Mr Ogilvie, who had suffered multiple wounds to his face, eyes and neck.

Detective Inspector Alexander told the court that Mr Ogilvie lost his left eye, suffered severe damage to his right eye, deep cuts to his head and face and long lacerations to his back.

Alodid was taken to hospital with a hand injury. He is also charged with threatening to kill an NHS radiographer and possessing a knife.

The charges were put to him through an interpreter on Wednesday. When asked whether he wished to say anything in response, he replied: “No.”

His solicitor, Mr Magee, confirmed there was no application for bail and applied for legal aid to be extended to allow a senior barrister to be instructed.

Alodid had previously declined to enter a plea when the charges were put to him. He will be required to enter a plea at his Crown Court arraignment. If he refuses to answer, the court can enter a not guilty plea on his behalf.