Bonfire Lit Ahead of Police Removal
A loyalist bonfire in Moygashel, Co Tyrone, which sparked widespread condemnation after a replica mosque was placed on top, was set alight early on Friday morning before police could remove the hate display. The smouldering remains continued to burn in the village as authorities maintained a low-key presence.
Man Charged with Incitement to Hatred
A 56-year-old man is due to appear at Dungannon Magistrates’ Court on Friday, charged with incitement to hatred. The charge follows an investigation by the Police Service of Northern Ireland (PSNI) into the bonfire, which also featured signs reading “Secure our borders” and “End the threat of radical Islam.”
Police Operation Thwarted
The Moygashel Bonfire Association announced on social media shortly after midnight: “Due to confirmation of contractors moving in and removing the bonfire, the decision has been made to light it asap.” The PSNI stated it had “commenced a significant and complex policing operation to remove a hate display from the Moygashel bonfire,” which was at an “advanced stage when the bonfire was lit.”
A PSNI spokesperson said: “Had the bonfire not been lit police would have secured the site and removed the offending material and seized it as evidence. The Police Service of Northern Ireland’s investigation into this hate motivated crime is ongoing.”
Condemnation from Leaders
Political and religious leaders had criticised the placement of the mosque replica on the bonfire, which was originally scheduled to be lit on Friday night. Calls for police action intensified before the early ignition. Chief Superintendent Norman Haslett condemned the act: “Hate crime has no place in our society and will not be tolerated. That is why we commenced a proactive policing operation to take action and remove the hate display from Moygashel Bonfire. Before police arrival, the bonfire was set alight a day in advance to prevent removal of the criminal material. Where there is evidence that offences have been committed, we will take robust action.”
Historical Context
The Moygashel bonfire site has attracted controversy in previous years. Last year, effigies of migrants in a boat were burned on the fire, drawing condemnation. The bonfires are traditionally lit during the Eleventh night celebrations ahead of the Orange Order’s July 12 parades, which take place across Northern Ireland on Friday, Saturday, and Sunday evenings. While most bonfires pass without incident, some have become focal points for contention due to the placement of flags, effigies, and election posters before ignition.
