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Group Steals Somali Flag Outside Buffalo City Hall, Mayor Says

Police say they have a lead as investigators examine vandalism and an online threat tied to the flag-raising, along with harassing messages to council members.

  • On Wednesday, the Somali flag was stolen from Niagara Square hours after being raised to honor Somalian Independence Day. Mayor Sean Ryan stated vandals broke the access panel and cut the cable overnight.
  • The group Heal International has raised the Somali flag at Niagara Square for at least the past four years. The city makes these flagpoles available to various organizations representing Ukraine, Italy, and Bangladesh.
  • BPD Commissioner Erika Shields confirmed police are investigating an "online threat to blow up City Hall" in connection with the flag-raising. Authorities are also reviewing harassing messages sent to Buffalo Common Council members.
  • Langworthy criticized the administration on Facebook, claiming leaders "couldn't find a site" to celebrate America's 250th birthday with fireworks yet facilitated the flag raising. Ryan had previously announced no downtown fireworks this year.
  • Police are investigating the vandalism to the flagpole, which is city property, though the specific charges depend on damage assessment. Authorities have a lead on a suspect believed to reside outside the city.
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Townhall broke the news in Washington, United States on Thursday, July 2, 2026.
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