A hate crime investigation has been initiated in Northern Ireland following the burning of an effigy depicting migrants at a traditional loyalist bonfire, raising concerns over community tensions.**
Police Probe Racist Bonfire Incident in Northern Ireland Amid Loyalist Celebrations**

Police Probe Racist Bonfire Incident in Northern Ireland Amid Loyalist Celebrations**
Investigation launched after effigy of migrant boat burned, prompting widespread condemnation from leaders.**
In a troubling event during the annual loyalist celebrations in Northern Ireland, police are investigating a bonfire that featured an effigy of a boat loaded with life-size mannequins representing migrants in life jackets, which was sensationally set ablaze. This act occurred in Moygashel, County Tyrone, amidst a significant gathering on July 11, as part of the ongoing Twelfth of July commemorations marking the historic 1690 victory of the Protestant King William III over the Catholic King James II.
The bonfire, adorned with banners calling to "stop the boats" and placing "veterans before refugees", has been widely condemned by various political and religious figures, raising alarms about the implications of such public displays. In response to numerous calls regarding the incident, the Police Service of Northern Ireland stated that they consider the burning of the effigy as a "hate incident" and are actively investigating it.
The longstanding tradition of parades and bonfires among the Protestant community dates back over a century. Although the tensions during 'marching season' have diminished over the years, the recent incident underscores the fragility of community relations in a region still healing from the repercussions of the Troubles, marked by sectarian conflict. Police authorities noted their commitment to ensuring safety and support for vulnerable persons, while also indicating the limitations posed by existing legislative frameworks in addressing these types of incidents.
The bonfire, adorned with banners calling to "stop the boats" and placing "veterans before refugees", has been widely condemned by various political and religious figures, raising alarms about the implications of such public displays. In response to numerous calls regarding the incident, the Police Service of Northern Ireland stated that they consider the burning of the effigy as a "hate incident" and are actively investigating it.
The longstanding tradition of parades and bonfires among the Protestant community dates back over a century. Although the tensions during 'marching season' have diminished over the years, the recent incident underscores the fragility of community relations in a region still healing from the repercussions of the Troubles, marked by sectarian conflict. Police authorities noted their commitment to ensuring safety and support for vulnerable persons, while also indicating the limitations posed by existing legislative frameworks in addressing these types of incidents.