Tensions escalated dramatically in Dublin as violent riots broke out outside a hotel housing migrants following the alleged rape of a 10-year-old girl. The unrest, which began on Monday night outside the Citywest Hotel in Saggart, County Dublin, intensified on Tuesday evening, leading to widespread violence and property damage.
According to reports, crowds gathered in protest after news emerged that a young girl had been sexually assaulted near the hotel. A 26-year-old male asylum seeker has been charged in connection with the attack and appeared in court on Tuesday.
What began as a protest quickly turned chaotic as demonstrators clashed with law enforcement officers. A Gardaí van was set ablaze, while officers were pelted with bricks, glass bottles, and fireworks. The Irish police confirmed that a Gardaí helicopter monitoring the situation from above was also targeted with a laser by members of the crowd.
Chief Superintendent Michael McNulty described the situation as “sustained levels of violence” against officers attempting to restore order and disperse the rioters. Emergency services worked through the night to control the fires and secure the area surrounding the hotel.
Authorities have since increased security around migrant housing facilities in Dublin to prevent further outbreaks of violence. Irish leaders and community organizations have called for calm, urging the public to allow justice to take its course through proper legal channels.
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