Ethnic minorities warned of threats

There have been a number of racist attacks in recent times

Ethnic minority groups in Northern Ireland have been warned by police of threats to attack them.

In a statement on Tuesday, the police said they had received uncorroborated information about possible attacks.

They said they would take appropriate action to protect those who are vulnerable.

Chief Superintendent Wesley Wilson said they had received information from the community that attacks would take place and that police would increase patrols.

"Sectarianism seems to be spilling over into racism," he said.

This is absolutely ridiculous to associate us or any other minority ethnic groups with 9/11 Anna Lo Chinese Welfare Association

Davy Carlin of the Anti-Racism Network said there could be attacks as the third anniversary of the Twin Tower attacks in New York approaches.

"There may well be attacks on the minority ethnic community in and around September 11," he said.

"Our information has been that some far right fascist organisations and other individuals whose sympathy lies with them, who are involved in paramilitary organisations, may use September 11 to attack members of the minority ethnic community - the most vulnerable members at this time in society."

Loyalist paramilitaries have been linked to a number of recent racially-motivated attacks.

David Ervine, leader of the Progressive Unionist Party, which is aligned to the UVF, said he had heard of the threats and was concerned by them.

PUP leader David Ervine is concerned by the threats

"Although I can't confirm it, the suggestion is that it may be around 11 September," he said.

"It's clear that ethnic minorities have been warned by police.

"Those who work in congregated groups have been warned first, and that's quite a worry."

Anna Lo of the Chinese Welfare Association said police told their members that minority ethnic groups may be a target for attacks around the anniversary of the 11 September attacks.

Ms Lo said it was a worrying development.

"We totally object to being linked with international terrorism and terrorist groups," she said.

"This is absolutely ridiculous to associate us or any other minority ethnic groups with 9/11.

"The people who issued these threats are looking for excuses to frighten ethnic minority groups and this is totally unacceptable."