Dublin Violence Erupts Second Night Near Asylum Seeker Hotel After Assault Allegation

Dublin has experienced two consecutive nights of violent protests near the CityWest Hotel, which houses asylum seekers, following an alleged sexual assault of a young girl by a 26-year-old asylum seeker. Hundreds of protesters threw bricks, fireworks, and other missiles at police, resulting in at least 23 arrests and injuries to officers, including one who was pepper-sprayed. The unrest included attempts to block police vehicles and vandalism near the Saggart Luas tram stop, prompting deployment of riot police, mounted units, and a police helicopter. Irish police reported that much of the violence appeared to have been organized online. Despite the violence, police managed to keep protesters away from the hotel, which accommodates families and children as part of Ireland's international protection program. Authorities have pledged a robust response to any further disorder as tensions remain high in the area.