Dublin descends into chaos: Bus ablaze, looting, and violent clashes shock the city

In a shocking turn of events, Dublin witnessed unprecedented chaos on Thursday evening. A double-decker bus was set on fire, marking the beginning of a night filled with violence and terror. This alarming incident occurred after a stabbing in the city wounded five people, including three children. The aftermath saw public transport come to a standstill, with authorities advising against travel to nearby hospitals unless absolutely necessary.

Escalating Violence: From Protest to Rampage

The situation quickly escalated as protesters, fueled by anti-immigrant sentiment, clashed with riot police. Approximately 50 demonstrators breached a police barrier amid shouts of “get them out.” The violence spiraled out of control as a larger crowd engaged, hurling objects and fireworks at the riot police. The police, outnumbered and under attack, struggled to regain control of the chaotic scene.

Authorities Condemn Unrest, Vow to Restore Order

Police Commissioner Drew Harris, after deploying 400 officers, described the scenes as disgraceful, attributing the violence to a “lunatic, hooligan faction driven by far-right ideology.” Justice Minister Helen McEntee echoed these sentiments, condemning the thugs and criminals exploiting the situation to sow division. She affirmed that every possible force would be used by the Gardai to restore order.

Stabbing Incident Sparks Fury

The catalyst for the unrest was a stabbing incident in Parnell Square East, where a five-year-old girl was seriously wounded. Two other children and two adults, including the suspected perpetrator, were hospitalized following the incident. The motives behind the attack remain unclear, with authorities keeping an open mind as investigations continue.