U.k Security Services Eyeing Far-Right Instigators Amid Concerns Over Disinformation and Russian Influence
Security services are intensifying their scrutiny of the recent far-right riots in the UK, following statements from Christopher Steele, a former MI6 officer, who indicated clear Russian involvement in the unrest. Steele, known for his controversial dossier on Donald Trump’s connections to Russia, revealed that officials are “looking very carefully” at those stoking the anti-immigration violence.
The protest, which erupted after a false claim about a Muslim immigrant involved in a Southport stabbing went viral, saw attacks on mosques, police officers, and a hotel housing asylum seekers in Rotherham. Steele highlighted that the disinformation surrounding the Southport incident likely originated from a Russian-linked website, Channel3 Now, which mimics the style of mainstream American news outlets.
Prominent far-right figures, including Tommy Robinson and Nigel Farage, have been linked to the unrest through their online activities. Steele suggested that security services will be investigating the travel, communications, and financial transactions of these individuals to determine the extent of any Russian interference.
The government has acknowledged the potential role of state actors in amplifying online disinformation and is considering legal reforms to address the issue. London Mayor Sadiq Khan criticized the current Online Safety Act, calling for stronger measures to combat the spread of violent and extremist content.
The National Crime Agency and the Department for Science, Innovation and Technology are reportedly examining the situation, with ministers pledging to re-examine laws surrounding misinformation in light of the recent violence.
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