Nine Arrested for Celebrating Hitler's Birthday in Greater Manchester Pub

In a disturbing incident that has drawn both outrage and concern, nine individuals were arrested in Greater Manchester after allegedly gathering at the Duke of Edinburgh pub in Royton to commemorate Adolf Hitler's birthday with a cake featuring a swastika. This event, which took place on April 19, marks the Nazi leader’s 136th birthday and has sparked significant public outcry. According to pub landlord Terry English, the group 'sneaked in' without being noticed by staff, subsequently prompting him to report the incident to the police. The arrests were made on suspicion of violating Section 18 of the Public Order Act, which prohibits the display of written material that is threatening, abusive, or insulting with the intent to incite racial hatred. The police have since conducted searches across a number of locations including Rochdale, Bolton, Trafford, Stockport, and Southport, uncovering imitation firearms, swords, a crossbow, and various Nazi memorabilia. Notably, a suspected grenade was discovered in Bolton, which has since been declared safe following investigation by explosive ordnance experts. Assistant Chief Constable Steph Parker underscored the seriousness of the investigation, highlighting the unsettling nature of the materials recovered. Emphasizing public safety, Parker reassured the community that there is no broader threat to public safety at this time. He stated that the group exhibits a disconcerting fascination with ideologies that could disturb the peace in Greater Manchester and expressed the necessity for police to respond effectively to such concerns. Furthermore, he encouraged the public to remain vigilant and report any related information. This incident raises questions about the extent of extremism in local areas, pointing to a need for heightened awareness and proactive measures to prevent the propagation of hate-fueled actions. The involvement of Counter Terrorism Policing North West suggests a serious approach to what could be perceived as a nexus between hate speech and potential violent action, reflecting a broader societal challenge regarding the resurgence of extremist ideologies. As communities grapple with this alarming event, it is essential to stress the importance of unity in opposing hate and intolerance, which threaten the social fabric of society. Reports such as these remind us of the ongoing battles faced against hatred and discrimination in all its forms, necessitating both community vigilance and institutional robust responses.