Murder victim Hazem Ahmed Ghreir, Photo issued on behalf of his family

DETECTIVES from the PSNI’s Major Investigation Team have been granted additional time to question a teenager over the murder of Hazem Ahmed Ghreir.

The 18 year old suspect was arrested on Sunday evening, June 4 after Mr Ghreir was found stabbed in Downshire Place off Belfast’s Great Victoria Street.

Mr Ghreir, a Syrian refugee in his 30s later died despite the valiant efforts of paramedics at the scene.

Detectives continue to appeal for information about the brutal murder.

Detective Inspector Darren McCartney, who is leading the investigation, said: “We are continuing to investigate the murder of Hazem, who was in his 30s.

“We would appeal to anyone who was in the Downshire Place vicinity of Great Victoria Street on Sunday night at around 10.45pm to contact police.

“I would also ask anyone who has any footage captured from the incident to get in touch.

“At this stage of the investigation we do not believe race was an issue and we are not treating this matter as a hate crime.

“An 18 year old male who we arrested last night is currently in custody at Musgrave PSNI station and is assisting police with their enquiries.”

Anyone with information is asked to contact Detectives at the incident room at Musgrave Street on 101.

Or if you would prefer to remain anonymous please phone Crime Stoppers on 0800 555 111.