PSNI Statistics Reveal Record High in Racist Incidents Across Northern Ireland

Newly released figures from the Police Service of Northern Ireland (PSNI) show that recorded race hate incidents and crimes have climbed to their highest levels since records began in 2004/05.

This represents an increase of 503 incidents and 268 crimes compared to the previous 12-month period. Increases were also recorded in sectarian, disability, and faith or religion-related incidents.

The report highlighted that eight of the ten highest monthly totals in the entire data series occurred during this 12-month timeframe, peaking in June 2026 with 512 race incidents recorded in that month alone.

The sharp rise coincides with widespread disorder that broke out during June following a stabbing incident in North Belfast. The unrest saw masked groups targeting homes, vehicles, and public transport, alongside reports of foreign national healthcare workers facing threats and intimidation.

Responding to the figures, Patrick Corrigan, Northern Ireland Director of Amnesty International, stated that racist hate crime in the region had broken all the wrong records and called on the Stormont Executive to make tackling racism an urgent priority. He stressed the need for a comprehensive anti-racism strategy, updated hate crime legislation, and clear leadership to support affected families and safeguard vulnerable communities.

PSNI Superintendent Joanne Gibson expressed concern over the findings and reaffirmed the police service's commitment to tackling hate crime. She confirmed that a dedicated policing operation following the summer disorder has led to 42 arrests, resulting in 33 individuals charged, eight bailed, and one reported to the Public Prosecution Service.

Superintendent Gibson emphasized that racially motivated criminality will not be tolerated and urged anyone who experiences or witnesses a hate crime to come forward, assuring the community that all reports will be taken seriously and investigated thoroughly.