Cheshire Police said Thursday they have arrested a woman in connection with a social media post that contained false information about the identity of the Southport murder suspect.
The 55-year-old woman, who is from near Chester, was taken into custody earlier today, Thursday 8 August. Police said the woman is suspected of publishing written material intended to incite racial hatred (under Section 19 of the Public Order Act 1986) and making false communications (under Section 179 of the Online Safety Act 2023).
She is currently in police custody and is cooperating with officers as they continue their investigation, Cheshire Police said.
Chief Superintendent Alison Ross said:
“We have all seen the violent disorder that has taken place across the UK over the past week, much of which has been fuelled by malicious and inaccurate communications online.
“It’s a stark reminder of the dangers of posting information on social media platforms without checking the accuracy. It also acts as a warning that we are all accountable for our actions, whether that be online or in person.”
UK police have issued a warning about the potential for further unrest tonight, with nearly 500 individuals already arrested in connection to the far-right violence spreading across the country.
According to the National Police Chiefs’ Council, 20 riot-related events and three counter-gatherings are scheduled for today, with thousands of officers remaining on high alert.
To date, 483 people have been arrested in connection with violent disorder throughout Britain following last Monday’s stabbing of three young girls in Southport, Merseyside.
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