Man arrested in Birmingham over social media posts inciting racial hatred after protest
People from the Muslim community gathered in Bordesley Green on Monday after rumours of a far-right rally.
Police have arrested a man as part of investigations into social media rumours about protests in the Bordesley Green area of Birmingham on Monday night (5 Aug).
The 49-year-old was detained last night (7 Aug) after a large number of people gathered and a number of incidents were reported. West Midlands Police stated afterwards that they were investigating five separate incidents, including criminal damage and an assault.
Police have been investigating posts on various social media platforms inciting racial hatred with an image of a man holding a firearm.
The man, arrested on suspicion of inciting racial hatred and possession of a firearm, remains in custody as police work to identify and detain those involved in criminal activity.
In a statement on the website, West Midlands Police said: "We will not tolerate violence in our towns and cities, or tolerate those who use social media to encourage such violence.
"Please challenge what you see online, report where appropriate and consider the source of the posts. Always go to trusted sources for your information which includes news outlets and through our social media channels."