Violence Erupts During Anti-Refugee Protest in Coolock, North Dublin
DUBLIN: Several individuals were injured, and 15 people were taken into custody after an anti-refugee protest in Coolock, north Dublin, turned violent. The protest prompted a significant Garda response, resulting in damage to multiple Garda vehicles, including one that was set on fire. Several Gardaí sustained injuries during clashes with the protesters.
The situation escalated when the crowd began throwing stones at Gardaí, leading the officers to deploy pepper spray extensively. The protesters also hurled petrol bombs at the Gardaí, damaged a JCB brought in for constructing a refugee centre, and set fire to roads in the surrounding areas. Videos circulating on social media show several unarmed Gardaí attempting to subdue and defend against the aggressive crowd.
The unrest began early in the morning after trucks and construction materials were spotted arriving at the site, which the government had previously announced would be converted into a centre for refugees. The protest quickly escalated, prompting authorities to divert traffic from the area and close Malahide Road, a main route into the city.
The government’s decision to transform the Coolock factory into a refugee centre has been met with resistance from some local residents, leading to the violent outburst. The incident underscores the tensions surrounding immigration and refugee policies in the region.
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