PPS decisions expected in relation to BLM protests that took place during Covid-19 restrictions

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By Q Radio News

The PPS is expected to announce later whether it will pursue cases against protesters accused of Covid breaches during Black Lives Matter rallies last summer. 

Police handed out dozens of fines at anti-racism demonstrations in Belfast and Derry/Londonderry. 

Police Ombudsman Marie Anderson is investigating  "allegations of inconsistencies". 


The inconsistencies are in relation to the policing approach to engagement and enforcement at the Black Lives Matter protests when compared with the funeral of Bobby Storey.

The complainant alleges that the inconsistencies amount to race discrimination.
 
The Police Ombudsman has a statutory duty to investigate qualifying complaints about police conduct and is satisfied that the complaint, received on 6 April 2021, is one that she is required to investigate.
 
The investigation will focus on matters related to the engagement of the PSNI with the organisers of the Black Lives Matter protest in Guildhall Square, Derry/Londonderry in advance of the event.

The investigation will examine if this engagement was consistent with the PSNI's approach to the organisers of Bobby Storey’s funeral.

The investigation will also examine the PSNI strategy, policies and decision-making around the two events in light of this complaint.

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