The PSNI say they mounted a “significant and complex” policing operation in Moygashel on Thursday night in a bid to remove what they have described as a “hate display” from a local bonfire.
However, officers say the structure was set alight “a day in advance” of its scheduled lighting, in what they believe was an attempt to prevent the removal of the offending material.
Police said the bonfire was at “an advanced stage” of being lit when the operation began.
In a statement, the PSNI confirmed that, had the bonfire not been ignited, officers “would have secured the site and removed the offending material and seized it as evidence”.
They added that an investigation into what has been classed as a “hate motivated crime” is ongoing.
Chief Superintendent Norman Haslett said: “Hate crime has no place in our society and will not be tolerated. That is why tonight we commenced a proactive policing operation to take action and remove the hate display from Moygashel bonfire.
“In advance of 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.”
As part of the investigation, police have charged a 56-year-old man with incitement to hatred. He is due to appear before Dungannon Magistrates’ Court on Friday, July 10.
Chief Supt Haslett added that, as is normal procedure, all charges will be reviewed by the Public Prosecution Service.
