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Two arrested for inciting religious hatred online

The back of a police officer wearing a yellow police jacket that says "police" on it. Two other police officers can be seen in the background.Image source, Alamy
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The arrests were made following a report of threats and racist abuse on social media, police say

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Two men from Staffordshire have been arrested following a report of threats and racist abuse on social media.

The pair, aged 36 and 56, from Cannock, were detained on Saturday night, police said.

They were arrested on suspicion of publishing written material intended to stir up religious hatred.

Both men have been subsequently released on conditional bail while enquiries continue.

Ch Insp Giles Parsons from Staffordshire Police said: 鈥淓veryone has the right to feel safe and we have the responsibility to stand against hatred and discrimination of any kind and prevent further incidents from taking place.

鈥淲e will take robust action against anyone who makes threats or tries to incite hatred 鈥 whether this be online, in written comments or in person.

鈥淚t simply will not be tolerated in our community.鈥

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