Dublin, Ireland — Violent protests have erupted in parts of Dublin following the alleged sexual assault of a 10-year-old girl, with demonstrators clashing with police and setting Garda vehicles on fire outside a hotel housing asylum seekers.
The unrest began outside the Citywest Hotel in Saggart, a facility used by the Irish government to accommodate migrants and asylum seekers. Tensions escalated after reports surfaced that a man from an African country, living in Ireland for several years, had been arrested in connection with the assault of a young girl in the area.
According to The Irish Times, the suspect’s asylum application had previously been rejected, and he was awaiting the outcome of legal proceedings related to his immigration status. He remains in police custody while investigations continue.
Protesters gathered outside the hotel late Tuesday, throwing bottles and fireworks at police officers, while a Garda van and other vehicles were set ablaze, according to The Guardian and TIME. Riot police were deployed as the situation spiraled into violence, resulting in multiple arrests.
Authorities condemned the rioting as “thuggery and mob intimidation,” emphasizing that the ongoing investigation into the alleged assault must be allowed to proceed without interference.
“What we saw was not a protest — it was wanton violence,” a Garda spokesperson said. “This kind of behavior endangers our officers and damages our communities.”
Officials have warned that far-right agitators may be exploiting public anger to stoke anti-immigrant sentiment. The Irish government reaffirmed its commitment to due process, urging the public to avoid spreading misinformation online.
The 10-year-old victim is receiving medical treatment and support, while forensic examinations continue. Authorities have not released further details in order to protect the child’s privacy.
The incident has once again reignited debate in Ireland over immigration policies, asylum management, and public safety, with both political leaders and community representatives calling for calm and for justice to take its course.
