Man Arrested After Report of Religious Hate Crime in Whitehaven
A 62-year-old man has been arrested after a reported racial or religious hate crime in Whitehaven.
The incident happened on Duke Street at around 2pm on May 29.
Cumbria Police said officers were made aware of a man shouting racially aggravated comments towards two other men.
A 62-year-old man from Whitehaven was later arrested on suspicion of racially or religiously aggravated intentional harassment, alarm or distress.
He has been released on police bail with conditions while enquiries continue.
Police Investigating Possible Further Victims
Cumbria Police said officers are continuing to investigate the incident.
The force is now trying to find out whether there are any more victims. Officers also want to hear from anyone who may have witnessed what happened or recorded the incident on video.
This could include people who were on Duke Street at the time, nearby shop workers, residents, drivers, or anyone with dashcam, CCTV or mobile phone footage.
Police have asked anyone with information to come forward.
Incident Happened on Duke Street
The reported hate crime took place on Duke Street in Whitehaven, a town centre street used by pedestrians, residents and businesses.
The incident was reported to police after concerns were raised about comments allegedly shouted towards two men.
At this stage, police have not released further details about the victims or the exact nature of the comments.
The arrested man has not been charged, and the investigation remains ongoing.
Police Say Hate Crime Has a Serious Impact
Cumbria Police said hate crime and hate incidents can have a profound impact on victims, families and wider communities.
The force added that local officers are engaging with community leaders. Crime prevention advice has also been provided, and safeguarding measures, including CCTV, are in place.
Hate crime can include abuse, threats, harassment or violence targeting someone because of a protected characteristic. This can include race, religion, disability, sexual orientation or transgender identity.
Reports of racial or religious abuse are treated seriously because they can affect not only the people directly involved, but also the wider community.
Officers Appeal for Information
Anyone with information about the Duke Street incident is asked to contact Cumbria Police.
Reports can be made online through the Cumbria Police website, quoting incident number 125 of May 29, 2026.
People can also call police on 101.
Information can be given anonymously through Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.
Enquiries Remain Ongoing
The 62-year-old man from Whitehaven has been released on police bail with conditions.
This means police can continue making enquiries while the suspect must follow bail rules set by officers.
Cumbria Police are still working to establish the full circumstances of the incident, including whether there were any other victims, witnesses or video recordings.
Anyone who was in the Duke Street area at around 2pm on May 29 and saw or heard anything that may help the investigation is being urged to come forward.
