A police vehicle was set ablaze amidst violent protests against immigration last night. Reports indicate that a young girl was among the injured during the unrest near Citywest Hotel in Saggart, County Dublin. The upheaval followed an alleged sexual assault on a child, believed to be the same girl.
Individuals threw objects at law enforcement officers guarding the hotel, which is currently accommodating migrants, leading to a disturbing scene where a police van was ignited. Video footage online captures young men yelling “Get them out” as they hurl projectiles at the officers.
Six people were apprehended, and the Irish police service, An Garda Siochana, stated that one officer sustained a foot injury during the violent protests related to immigration. The police force condemned the events, labeling them as thuggish acts aimed at intimidation and harm rather than peaceful protest.
The sexual assault occurred near the hotel early Monday, prompting locals to plan a protest for Tuesday evening, which escalated into chaos around 9 pm. The video shows individuals, many wearing face coverings, waving Irish flags and chanting before throwing stones at police officers, with the footage circulating on social media.
Garda Commissioner Justin Kelly denounced the violence, emphasizing that the actions were far from a peaceful protest but rather a mob engaging in violent behavior against law enforcement. The authorities used various units and resources to restore order and pledged to identify and prosecute those involved in criminal activities.
This incident marks the second consecutive night of protests outside the hotel, which serves as state accommodation for asylum seekers. Justice Minister Jim O’Callaghan vowed that those responsible for the violence would face justice, condemning the disorderly actions witnessed at Citywest and affirming a robust response from the authorities.
Similar unruly incidents have been observed in various UK towns and cities during the summer, often met with counter-protests by anti-racism groups.