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Pakistani Developer Charged for Spreading False Information on Southport Attacker

Farhan Asif faces cyber terrorism charges in Pakistan over misinformation that fueled UK riots and anti-immigration protests.

Riot police hold back protesters after disorder broke out on July 30, 2024, in Southport, England. Rumours about the identity of the 17-year-old suspect in yesterday's deadly stabbing attack here have sparked a violent protest. According to authorities and media reports, the suspect was born in Cardiff to Rwandan parents, but the person cannot be named due to his age. A false report had circulated online that the suspect was a recent immigrant who crossed the English Channel last week and was "on an MI6 watchlist." (Photo by Christopher Furlong/Getty Images)
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UK riot

Overview

  • Farhan Asif, 32, reposted false claims that the Southport suspect was a Muslim immigrant.
  • The misinformation led to violent riots and anti-immigration protests across the UK.
  • Hundreds have been charged in the UK for their roles in the unrest, including violent disorder and arson.
  • Pakistani authorities are continuing their investigation and questioning of Asif.
  • The false information was initially spread through social media and a now-retracted article on Channel3 Now.