Condemnation as PSNI issue appeal at ‘Nazi-style’ posters

Condemnation as PSNI issue appeal at ‘Nazi-style’ posters

7 June 2023

POLICE have issued an appeal for information after a ‘Nazi-style’ recruits poster was put up in Downpatrick last week.

The poster, which has been since been taken down, has been described as intimidatory and racist.

It was put up close to the town’s bus station and is reminiscent of Nazi recruitment posters which were common in Germany during the 1930s.

It depicts the Nazi eagle, along with images of an Irish and Ulster flag. There is the slogan ‘White Lives Matter’, and a QR code for people to join an encrypted chat.

The group named in the poster, the Highland Division White Nationalist Activist Group, has the same name as a far right Nazi group in Scotland.

It is also the former British army division that fought the Nazis during the Second World War.

The poster has been condemned by a number of local politicians.

South Down Alliance MLA Patrick Brown described the poster as “intimidatory and racially charged”.

He added: “I would ask anyone who sees similar posters in this area to let me know so they can be dealt with in a similar fashion.”

Downpatrick SDLP councillor Conor Galbraith commented: “Downpatrick is a welcoming town and I’m sure the majority of our community wouldn’t support such a recruitment drive.”

Slieve Croob DUP councillor Alan Lewis described the poster as “unwelcome”.

He went on: “Those with genuine concerns should engage in the democratic process, this style of poster is sinister, tasteless and unwelcome.

“Many men left these shores to fight Nazi oppression and aggression. To see imagery similar to that used by Hitler’s hate organisations is sickening.”

Cllr Lewis says he has contacted the police and intends to raise the issue with the Policing and Community Safety Partnership.

“The people of Downpatrick do not want these posters, they are unwelcome, uncalled for and do little for community relations,” he added.

A police spokesperson said: “Police are aware of a poster which has appeared in Downpatrick town centre. 

“Enquiries are ongoing and anyone with any information is asked to call Police on 101.”