Woman arrested in connection with inaccurate social media post

Officers from Cheshire Police have arrested a woman in relation to social media post containing inaccurate information about the identity of the attacker in the Southport murders.

The 55-year-old woman from near Chester, was arrested earlier today, Thursday 8 August, on suspicion of publishing written material to stir up racial hatred (S19 of the Public Order Act 1986) and false communications (S179 Online Safety Act 2023).

She is currently being held in police custody where she is assisting officers with their enquiries.

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.”