Police in Northern Ireland are investigating a potential Islamist terrorist link to a stabbing in Belfast earlier this month.
Religious ideology is one of a number of potential motives being investigated.
Detectives are also probing whether a mental health episode or hate were factors.
An 18-year-old man was arrested after the stabbing near the Ormeau Road at around 7.35pm on Saturday, March 1st.
A man (51) received treatment in hospital for his injuries.
Assistant Chief Constable Davy Beck of the Police Service of Northern Ireland said: “The suspect was arrested on suspicion of wounding with intent to do grievous bodily harm and possession of an offensive weapon in a public place, before being detained for the purpose of assessment by mental health professionals.
“He remains in their care at this time.
“The victim, a 51-year-old man, received treatment in hospital and has since been discharged.
“He continues to receive support from specialist officers.
“While I would stress that the motive for the attack has not yet been established, detectives are exploring a number of potential motivating factors, including the possibility that this was a hate crime, a mental health episode or driven by religious ideology.
“At this time, no other persons are being sought in connection with the attack.”
