Scottish police announced they have arrested an Isle of Bute resident who they say is responsible for offensive Facebook posts directed at refugees after the man posted a number of messages in response to Syrian refugees relocated to the town of Rothesay.
The man was not identified, but police confirmed he is 40 years old and lives in the Inverclyde area. He was arrested under the authority of the Offensive Behaviour at Football and Threatening Communications Act. The law is aimed to stop abusive behavior, bigotry and hate speech at football games and online.
Twelve Syrian families were moved to the island in December.
Police spokesman Inspector Ewan Wilson released a statement after the arrest:
“I hope that the arrest of this individual sends a clear message that Police Scotland will not tolerate any form of activity which could incite hatred and provoke offensive comments on social media.”
No details were released on the content of the Facebook posts.