Bonfire banner with name of murdered police officer a ‘hate crime’

Flags and banners are hung on a large bonfire being built to mark the Catholic Feast of the Assumption in the Bogside area of Derry. Picture: Liam McBurney/PA

The placing of a banner bearing the name of a murdered police officer on a republican bonfire has been described as a “hate crime” and a “deep insult” to his memory.

The Police Federation of Northern Ireand (PFNI), which represents rank-and-file PSNI officers, said the action was an “appalling indictment” of some sections of society.