A police van was set ablaze last night in the midst of protests against immigration, leading to a chaotic scene near Citywest Hotel in Saggart, County Dublin. Reports indicate that a young girl was among those injured in the unrest, sparked by an alleged sexual assault incident involving the same girl.
During the turmoil, individuals threw objects at police officers safeguarding the hotel, where migrants are currently housed, culminating in the distressing sight of a police van being engulfed in flames. Videos circulating online captured young men shouting “Get them out” as they pelted officers with projectiles.
In response to the escalating situation, six individuals were apprehended, and the Irish police service, An Garda Siochana, confirmed that one officer sustained a foot injury during the immigration-related unrest. Denouncing the violence, the police force emphasized that the actions displayed were acts of thuggery aimed at intimidation and harm, rather than peaceful protest.
The initial sexual assault incident occurred near the hotel in the early hours of Monday, prompting locals to plan a protest for Tuesday evening, which unraveled into chaos by around 9 pm. Footage from the scene depicted people, many with face coverings, brandishing Irish flags and chanting before escalating to the hurling of stones and other objects at law enforcement officers, captured in a viral video shared on social media.
Garda Commissioner Justin Kelly condemned the actions of the mob, describing the events as an organized attack against law enforcement, contrary to the principles of peaceful protest. He lauded the professionalism and bravery of the police officers who worked diligently to maintain public safety, utilizing various units and resources to restore order and identify the perpetrators for legal action.
This marks the second consecutive night of protests outside the hotel, which serves as temporary housing for asylum seekers. Justice Minister Jim O’Callaghan vowed to bring those responsible for the violence to justice, condemning the disorderly conduct and affirming a robust response from the police against such actions.
The incident mirrors similar disturbances witnessed in various UK towns and cities during the summer, with anti-racism groups staging counter-protests in response to anti-immigration demonstrations.