Violent Protests Erupt Over Alleged Assault Near Dublin Asylum Hotel

Protests near the Citywest Hotel in Dublin, which houses asylum seekers, have entered a third consecutive night following an alleged sexual assault of a 10-year-old girl nearby. Hundreds of demonstrators have clashed with Irish police, throwing fireworks, stones, bricks, glass bottles, and other debris, resulting in injuries to officers and multiple arrests. The unrest has included attempts to block police vehicles with steel barriers, vandalism near the Saggart Luas tram stop, and the burning of a police vehicle. Authorities, including the Garda Public Order Unit, mounted and dog units, and aerial support, have responded with pepper spray and advanced on crowds to disperse them. Garda Commissioner Justin Kelly and Justice Minister Jim O’Callaghan condemned the violence, pledging a robust and relentless response to those involved. The unrest reflects deep community anger following the alleged assault, with some protesters calling for the removal of asylum seekers from the area.