The woman accused of being first to spread the fake rumours about the Southport killer which sparked nationwide riots has been arrested.

Racist riots spread across the country after misinformation spread on social media claiming the fatal stabbing was carried out by Ali Al-Shakati, believed to be a fictitious name, a Muslim aslyum seeker who was on an MI6 watchlist.

A 55-year-old woman from Chester has now been arrested on suspicion of publishing written material to stir up racial hatred, and false communication. She remains in police custody.

While she has not been named in the police statement about the arrest, it is believed to be Bonnie Spofforth, a mother-of-three and the managing director of a clothing company.

  • haunte@leminal.space
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    5 months ago

    She tweeted it from her known account. They know it was her 100%. They’re just being careful because she hasn’t been charged yet.

    • Delta@lemmy.blahaj.zone
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      5 months ago

      This. There was reports days before her arrest with her real name, it’s been known