A replica of a mosque was placed on top of a loyalist bonfire in Moygashel, County Tyrone, Northern Ireland, prompting strong criticism and an arrest. Police confirmed a 56-year-old man was arrested on suspicion of contravening Article 9 of the Public Order (NI) Order 1987 and remains in custody.
Northern Ireland Secretary Hilary Benn condemned the display as a "sickening and cowardly act of intimidation" and stated it does not represent the majority of people in Northern Ireland. Amnesty International described the act as a "vile display" and a "blatant attempt to stir up anti-Muslim hatred and intimidate local families." The organization called for a decisive police response, suggesting the act could amount to incitement to hatred under Northern Ireland law.
The Moygashel Bonfire Association characterized the display as a "political protest" against "uncontrolled illegal mass immigration." Signs reading "Secure our borders" and "End the threat of radical Islam" were also affixed to the pyre, which is constructed from pallets.
This is not the first time the Moygashel bonfire has been at the center of controversy. In 2025, the site drew backlash after effigies of migrants in a boat were burned.
Political leaders across various parties have denounced the replica mosque. Ulster Unionist Party Leader Jon Burrows called for its immediate removal, stating that while bonfires are a cultural tradition, they should not be used for intimidation. Fermanagh and South Tyrone Sinn Fein MLA Colm Gildernew described the display as a "clear hate crime," while Alliance Party councillor Eddie Roofe called it "hateful and deeply offensive."
SDLP councillor Carl Whyte expressed that singling out an entire religion is "shameful." The pyre is scheduled to be lit on Friday night as part of the Eleventh Night celebrations preceding the Orange Order's July 12 parades. While most bonfires pass without incident, some have become focal points for contention due to the placement of various items on the structures.