A replica of a mosque placed atop a traditional loyalist bonfire in Moygashel, Northern Ireland, was set alight a day earlier than planned, preventing police from removing what they described as a “hate display.” The structure, erected ahead of the annual July 12 commemorations of the 1690 Battle of the Boyne, drew widespread condemnation from political leaders and law enforcement.

Police said they had intended to remove the display as evidence before it was burned, calling it a potential hate crime. A 56-year-old man has been charged with incitement to hatred and is scheduled to appear in court. UK Northern Ireland Secretary Hilary Benn condemned the display as a “sickening and cowardly act of intimidation.”

The incident comes amid heightened tensions following recent anti-migrant violence in Belfast. Organisers had also displayed banners carrying anti-immigration and anti-Islam messages, while the replica included an effigy holding what appeared to be a knife. Similar controversial displays have appeared at the same bonfire site in previous years, reflecting growing concerns over hate-fuelled symbolism during the annual celebrations.

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