Around 1:30 pm, an alarming occurrence unfolded near a school on Parnell Square East. A person in their late 40s or 50s drew near children and caused harm by stabbing a 5-year-old girl and a woman in her 30s, both experiencing serious injuries. Two other young victims, a 6-year-old girl and a 5-year-old boy, also sustained injury, although less severe. The attacker was restrained by onlookers and later sent to the hospital due to theirs. The identity of the perpetrator has yet to be revealed by law enforcement.
Amidst rumors regarding the attacker’s immigration status, the city plunged into an uproar. Despite reassurances from the Gardai that the assault lacked any terrorist ties, chaos ran rampant. The Finglas immigration center was a focal point for rioters who lit it up in flames; on O’Connell Bridge, a bus and vehicles were set ablaze. Authorities had no choice but to mobilize riot police as they struggled to quell the rapidly increasing violence.
According to the Irish Times, the violence was caused by a group of violent hooligans led by far-right beliefs, as reported by Garda Commissioner Draw Harris. Minister for Justice Helen McEntee labeled the perpetrators as a cunning and violent faction who capitalized on the stabbing to stir chaos.
With varying reactions to the social media videos, the police response received criticism from some while others like fighter Conor McGregor expressed their disappointment. Raising his voice against the danger posed by elements in Ireland, McGregor tweeted about the incident, highlighting the need for change. The video of the unrest continued to circulate and caused outrage among some.
“Shameful stuff” is how Irish musician Rob Smith from The Swedish Railway Orchestra describes the recent riots that occurred in Ireland. He denounces these actions as being the work of sinister individuals, making this a truly dark day for Ireland.
