Police in riot gear deployed in Belfast as anti-Islam and anti-racism protesters face off

A confrontation between anti-immigration and anti-racism protesters is continuing in Belfast city centre.

The two groups were exchanging insults and a small number of fireworks and other missiles have been thrown.

The anti-immigration group chanted “Islam out” and unfurled union flags at the front of City Hall while an anti-racism rally took place across the road.

PSNI Land Rovers and officers in riot gear were separating the two groups.

Officers were seen arresting one man, who was taken away in a PSNI car.

The protests come after the killing of three young girls at a Taylor Swift-themed holiday club in Merseyside, England, on Monday.

Axel Muganwa Rudakubana (17), from Lancashire in England, is accused of the attack, but false claims spread online that the suspect was an asylum seeker who had arrived in the UK by boat.

The PSNI has said it is aware of several planned protests across the region.

A spokesperson said: “The PSNI is aware of several planned protests across Northern Ireland today and will be in attendance to ensure the safety of everyone involved.

“Officers will remain in the area and continue to monitor the situation.”