Condemning Far-Right Extremism and Terrorist Influences in Falkirk
Escalating tensions across Falkirk District have raised serious concerns about far-right agitation and the influence of banned terrorist organisations.
What was presented as a protest against asylum seeker accommodation has been exposed as a platform for extremist rhetoric, and it must be firmly condemned.
On August 16, 2025, a demonstration in Falkirk saw individuals displaying inflammatory banners, including one with the chilling slogan “Kill ‘Em All, Let God Sort ‘Em Out.” This is no mere coincidence. As reported by the Belfast Telegraph, this banner is identical to one photographed in 1998 in the Maze Prison cell of Johnny Adair, a notorious leader of the Ulster Defence Association (UDA) – a proscribed terrorist group known for its role in sectarian violence. https://www.belfasttelegraph.co.uk/news/northern-ireland/kill-em-all-banner-at-scotland-anti-immigration-protest-identical-to-one-pictured-in-adairs-maze-prison-cell/a1125628130.html
The UDA’s legacy of hatred and division has no place in Scotland, and certainly not in the Falkirk district, where communities are rooted in inclusivity and solidarity.
Far-right groups are exploiting legitimate public concerns – such as pressures on local services or community safety – as a pretext for their toxic ideology. By brandishing symbols tied to terrorism, they seek to sow fear, division, and hatred. This is not about addressing real issues; it is a calculated effort to advance an extremist agenda that threatens societal cohesion. Genuine citizens with valid concerns must be wary of being manipulated as a front for these groups, who hide behind community anxieties to peddle hatred and extremism. Similar tactics have been observed across the UK, where far-right groups hijack immigration debates to promote racism and violence. In Falkirk, a place celebrated for its community spirit and resilience, such actions are utterly unacceptable.
Martyn Day, Scottish Nationalist politician and candidate for Falkirk East and Linlithgow, expressed his outrage: “The presence of symbols linked to terrorist organisations like the UDA in Falkirk is an affront to our values. We must stand united against this extremism and ensure our communities remain safe and welcoming for all.”
The counter-demonstrators from Stand Up To Racism Scotland, Falkirk Trades Union Council, and local residents who stood against this hatred deserve praise. Their presence reflected the true heart of Falkirk: one of unity and compassion. However, vigilance is essential. Police Scotland’s investigation into the banner and related activities is a positive step, but decisive action is needed to prevent these groups from gaining traction. Collaboration with local authorities, community leaders, and elected representatives is vital to keeping Falkirk a safe and inclusive place for all, regardless of background.
Far-right extremism and terrorism will find no foothold in Falkirk. The community must reject those who manipulate public fears for their own ends and focus on constructive solutions that strengthen unity. Together, Falkirk can build a brighter, more inclusive future for everyone.
