PSNI Arrests Man Amid East Belfast Vigilante Ethnic Targeting Probe

Police in east Belfast have arrested a 37-year-old man on suspicion of assault, theft, and criminal damage amid investigations into vigilante groups targeting immigrants based on their skin color. These groups, including one called the East Belfast First Division (EFBD), have been recorded confronting and intimidating ethnic minority community members, demanding identification and questioning their presence. Superintendent Gavin Kirkpatrick condemned the vigilante activity as generating fear and having neither legal nor moral authority, emphasizing that it disrupts police efforts and diverts resources. The Police Service of Northern Ireland has increased patrols to monitor these groups and urges victims or witnesses to report incidents for robust police action. Political leaders, including the DUP deputy First Minister, have condemned the vigilante actions as racism that has no place in Northern Ireland. Authorities continue their investigation and stress that such vigilante behavior must stop for the safety and cohesion of the community.