Southport, UK - Britain has identified 17-year-old Axel Muganwa Rudakubana as the suspect charged with the murder of three young girls in Southport and the riots that have erupted nationwide.

Rudakubana, originally from Cardiff with Rwandan roots, was presented in Liverpool court on Thursday. Despite being a minor, Judge Andrew Menary allowed his identity to be revealed due to the “idiotic rioting” that followed the attack. Rudakubana faces three counts of murder and ten counts of attempted murder.

The tragic incident occurred at a Taylor Swift-themed dance class on Monday, resulting in the deaths of Alice Dasilva Aguiar, 9, Bebe King, 6, and Elsie Dot Stancombe, 7. Eight other children and two adults were also critically injured. Rudakubana was reportedly diagnosed with autism and described as a shy, introverted individual by neighbors.

The motive for the attack remains unclear, but the charges specify a kitchen knife with a curved blade as the murder weapon. Rudakubana has been remanded to a youth detention center, with a plea and trial preparation hearing set for October 25.

Following the attack, false rumors and misinformation about Rudakubana’s identity fueled violent protests. Riots erupted in Southport and spread to London, Hartlepool, and Manchester, resulting in injuries to over 50 officers and extensive property damage. Rioters vandalized a mosque, set vehicles alight, and clashed with police.

UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer condemned the far-right violence and disinformation that incited the unrest. He praised the police for their response and warned social media companies about their role in spreading false information.

As Britain reels from these events, the focus remains on justice for the victims and addressing the underlying causes of the unrest.