Police investigate reports of man dressed as Hamas terrorist

By Rebecca Black (PA)

Police in Northern Ireland are investigating a report of a person dressed as a Hamas terrorist at a Halloween event in Londonderry.

The Police Service of Northern Ireland’s area commander said they are aware of an image posted on social media, and are working to establish if this is genuine and, if so, when the person was pictured.

It has been reported the photograph was taken at a Halloween event in Derry.

“No officer who was on duty in the city centre this week observed this person,” Chief Superintendent Nigel Goddard said.

“We understand fully the offence this will cause, and how inappropriate this image is given the events in the Middle East right now.

“This may also constitute a criminal offence under Section 13 of The Terrorism Act.”

Mr Goddard has appealed for information about the report.

“From the image that we have right now, this will clearly be extremely difficult to identify the person pictured,” he said.

“Therefore, we would ask anyone who saw this person, can assist in identifying this person, or who may have captured this person on their mobile phone to call us on 101.

“We would also ask the person themselves to contact us to clear this matter up.”

DUP MLA Gary Middleton has said it is important the police fully investigate the picture.

“For anyone to make light of Hamas terrorism in such a way is beyond belief,” he said.

“For someone to walk around the city centre like this in broad daylight also raises questions about the level of stewarding and police presence in the area at the time.

“Indeed, such is the grotesque nature, it is hard to believe the photograph is authentic.

“It is important the authenticity of the photograph is determined, and a full investigation carried out if the photo is real.

“To dress in such a way is the glorification and celebration of a terrorist organisation.

“This will be a test of both the strength of the law around such issues and the will to take forward a prosecution.

“It is important that people attending the event who may have other footage or information should share this with the police to assist with their investigations.”