In a recent incident, a police van was set ablaze during violent clashes linked to opposition against immigration. Reports indicate that a young girl was among several individuals injured in the disturbance near Citywest Hotel in Saggart, County Dublin. The unrest was triggered by an alleged child sexual assault, believed to involve the same girl.
During the chaos, objects were thrown at law enforcement officers protecting the hotel, which is currently accommodating migrants. Disturbing footage circulating online shows young men shouting, “Get them out,” while projectiles rain down on the police.
Six individuals were apprehended, and a foot injury was reported by an officer from the Irish police service, An Garda Siochana, during the immigration-related disorder. The police condemned the violence as thuggery and an attempt to intimidate and harm others.
The sexual assault reportedly occurred in the vicinity of the hotel in the early hours of Monday, prompting locals to plan a protest for Tuesday evening, which eventually turned violent around 9 pm. In videos captured, individuals, many with face coverings, can be seen waving Irish flags and chanting before escalating to hurling objects, including stones, at police officers.
Garda Commissioner Justin Kelly denounced the actions as a mob seeking violence against law enforcement, emphasizing that the incident was far from a peaceful protest. He commended the officers for their professionalism and courage in maintaining public safety and stated that those responsible for the violence would be held accountable.
This marks the second consecutive night of demonstrations outside the hotel, which serves as temporary housing for asylum seekers. Justice Minister Jim O’Callaghan vowed that the perpetrators of the violence would face legal consequences, condemning the disorderly conduct witnessed at Citywest.
The scenes in Ireland closely resemble the unrest witnessed in various UK towns during the summer, although anti-racism groups organized counter-protests in many instances.