Authorities in Northern Ireland launched an investigation into a bonfire in Moygashel, County Tyrone, which displayed effigies of migrants in a boat alongside a banner reading “stop the boats” before being lit on Thursday night, according to AP News.
The Police Service of Northern Ireland (PSNI) confirmed it is assessing whether the display constitutes a hate incident, following complaints from church leaders and politicians.
The incident occurred amid heightened tensions after last month’s anti-immigrant riots in parts of the region, triggered by an influx of arrivals from Eastern Europe. Police stated they did not intervene beforehand due to operational constraints, noting they can only act “within the legislative framework that exists.”
The bonfire was one of approximately 300 scheduled ahead of July 12, the annual commemoration of Protestant King William III’s victory over Catholic King James II at the 1690 Battle of the Boyne. While many Protestants view the celebrations as integral to Northern Ireland’s cultural heritage, they frequently exacerbate divisions with Catholics who oppose British rule.
Bonfires have historically sparked controversy when adorned with inflammatory materials. Chief Constable Jon Boutcher emphasised in a statement:
It is vital that in marking these events, we do so in a way that respects the backgrounds and cultures of everyone who share these neighborhoods. There is no place for hate or intimidation — only space for celebration that welcomes and celebrates not divides.
PSNI officers will maintain a heightened presence through the weekend, pledging “firm and proportional action to keep people safe.”
