A loyalist bonfire in Moygashel, Co Tyrone, which was widely condemned after a replica mosque was placed on top, was lit early on Friday morning before police could remove the display. The smouldering remains continued to burn as political and religious leaders criticised the hateful imagery.
Bonfire Lit Ahead of Schedule
The bonfire had been scheduled to be lit on Friday night, but the Moygashel Bonfire Association announced shortly after midnight that they had decided to light it as soon as possible due to confirmation of contractors moving in to remove it. The Police Service of Northern Ireland (PSNI) had commenced a significant and complex policing operation to remove the hate display, but the operation was at an advanced stage when the bonfire was lit.
A PSNI spokesperson stated: “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.”
Man Charged with Incitement to Hatred
Brian Conrad Neill, 56, of Hollow Mills, New Mills, Dungannon, appeared in court on Friday charged with incitement to hatred over the bonfire. He was refused bail. Chief Superintendent Norman Haslett condemned the act, saying: “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.”
Previous Controversy at Moygashel Bonfire
The bonfire site has attracted controversy in previous years. Last year, effigies of migrants in a boat were burned on the Moygashel fire, drawing widespread condemnation. Signs saying “Secure our borders” and “End the threat of radical Islam” were also placed on the pyre this year.
Eleventh night bonfires are lit across Northern Ireland on July 11 and 12 evenings ahead of the Orange Order’s July 12 parades. While most pass off without incident, several have become contentious due to flags, effigies, and election posters placed on the structures before ignition.
Police maintained a low-key presence in the village on Friday morning as investigations continue.
