Northern Ireland

Concerns raised after images of individuals posted on far-right linked social media

False social media claims led to far-right riots last week

An anti immagration protest
Concerns have been raised after far-right linked social media sites posted pictures of individuals

Concerns have been raised after images of individuals were posted on loyalist social media sites suggesting they pose a threat to the community.

The sinister development comes after a series of far-right linked riots in Belfast in recent days.

Police have said there was a “paramilitary element” to violence that broke out in the loyalist Sandy Row area of Belfast on Monday.

The incident comes just days after false social media claims were made about the murder of three children in Southport, England, including suggestions the suspect was a refugee.



The untrue claims were later linked to unrest that broke out in several English towns and cities.

The loyalist site pictures an individual and claims he may be dangerous to the community. One commentator suggests he should be “tarred and feathered”

Fiona Doran of United Against Racism Belfast has voiced concern about the latest development.

“It is extremely worrying that photos of individuals are being circulated on far-right social media sites alleging that they pose a threat to the local community,” she said.

“These baseless accusations serve no purpose but to endanger people.

“We saw last week the speed with which allegations surrounding the tragic and senseless murder of three little girls in England escalated into riots, despite the allegations about the perpetrator being debunked numerous times.”

Ms Doran appealed for “politicians and community leaders to call for calm and peace”.