Six arrests after protesters burn police van in Dublin
Six people have been arrested after Irish police were attacked with missiles and fireworks following violence outside a hotel hosting asylum seekers in Dublin.
A police car was also set on fire as a large crowd of anti-immigrant protesters gathered near the Citywest Hotel in West Dublin.
The Irish Times, which published the video of the burning police van, reported that more than 500 people attended the protest on Tuesday evening.
Irish Prime Minister Micheal Martin condemned these scenes, stating that there could be “no justification” for attacks on the Garda, the Irish police force.
Videos posted on X by Irish media outlets and anti-immigrant activists showed people holding Irish flags and banners bearing anti-immigrant slogans. Protesters threw glass bottles and fireworks at police.
Garda Superintendent Justin Kelly, who visited the scene following the violence, said: “This was by no means a peaceful protest. This evening’s actions can only be described as thuggery. “This was a gang intent on violence against Gardaí.
“I strongly condemn the attacks on Gardaí who do their job professionally and with great courage to keep people safe.”
Justice Minister Jim O’Callaghan said the violence was “unacceptable and will result in a strong response”.
The incident comes two years after anti-immigrant protesters triggered a major riot in central Dublin after three young children were stabbed.
While Ireland is the only country in Europe without a far-right member of parliament, there has been a sharp rise in the profile of anti-immigrant groups who hold regular rallies demanding immigration restrictions in recent years.
with PA
