A 31-YEAR-OLD man accused of a horrific knife attack in North Belfast, which sparked rioting in parts of the city, is to stand trial for attempted murder.
Hadi Alodid, a Sudanese national from Duncairn Gardens, is charged with attempted murder and possessing a bladed article in public.
He also faces a further count of threatening or abusive behaviour following the stabbing incident.
The incident in Kinnaird Avenue on June 8 left victim Stephen Ogilvie partially blinded after losing one eye and severe damage to the other.
Serious disorder erupted in the aftermath of the attack, and some families were forced to flee their homes as properties, cars and a Glider vehicle were set alight in parts of Belfast.
During the brief hearing on Wednesday, Alodid appeared remotely from Maghaberry Prison. He spoke through an interpreter to confirm he understood the allegations against him.
A newly appointed defence solicitor told the court he had consulted with Alodid about the case.
Deputy District Judge Peter Prenter ordered Alodid to return to the Crown Court in Belfast on a date to be fixed.
No application for bail was mounted.
He will next appear in court for an arraignment hearing at a future stage.
