Belfast police declare major incident over controversial loyalist bonfire
The bonfire, located on Meridi Street, is set to be lit on 11 July ahead of annual Orange Order parades.
Concerns include potential damage to the electricity substation, which powers two major Belfast hospitals, and the presence of asbestos within the bonfire materials.
Belfast City Council's Strategic Policy and Resources Committee voted for the bonfire's removal, with the Police Service of Northern Ireland declaring it a "major incident" and establishing a Tactical Coordination Group.
Sinn Fein MLA Pat Sheehan criticised unionist leadership for not calling for its removal, while crowds gathered to guard the bonfire, blocking access points.
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