In brief
The Police Service of Northern Ireland has classified the incident as a hate crime following the burning of a mannequin-filled boat at an annual loyalist bonfire, inciting outrage from various community leaders.
On July 11, 2025, an effigy depicting a migrant boat was set ablaze in Moygashel, County Tyrone. The incident occurred amidst the loyalist celebrations commemorating the Twelfth of July, marking the historic victory of Protestant King William III over Catholic King James II in 1690. The effigy, made of wooden pallets and mannequins wearing life jackets, was ignited in front of a large onlooker crowd, alongside banners proclaiming "stop the boats" and "veterans before refugees."The Police Service of Northern Ireland (PSNI) received multiple reports regarding the flaming effigy, which led them to categorize the event as a “hate incident.” They expressed their commitment to ensuring the safety and well-being of vulnerable communities in light of the hate speech involved. Historically, the “marching season” in Northern Ireland has been a source of sectarian strife, particularly between Protestant and Catholic groups. Although tensions have decreased in recent years, instances like these still evoke fears of escalating lawlessness.In a recent statement, the PSNI acknowledged the significance of the incident and reiterated the complexities of policing such events within the existing legislative framework. The burning of the effigy has led to widespread criticism from political and religious leaders, who deemed it a blatant act of racism and a threat to community harmony. The investigation is ongoing as police seek to address the concerns surrounding such divisive events during this celebrated time.
