A riot broke out outside an immigration center in a Dublin suburb on Tuesday, sparked by the alleged rape of a ten-year-old girl.
Although authorities did not reveal the identity of the suspect, the Irish Times reported that he was a rejected asylum seeker who arrived from an African country about six years ago.
Several thousand protesters gathered in Saggart, where some threw projectiles at officers, set off fireworks and set fire to at least one police van. Police deployed reinforcements and a water cannon to contain the waste.
According to the Agency for Children and Families (Tusla), the assault occurred over the weekend near the former Citywest hotel, which was converted into a permanent shelter for immigrants.
The victim, who was under state guardianship, was attacked after “He absconded from staff during a planned recreational trip with staff in the city centre.” the agency said. Tusla added that the victim had been referred to his care earlier this year due to “Major behavioral problems.”
Police said the suspect has been detained for questioning. Agents have 24 hours to charge him or release him.
Taoiseach (Prime Minister) Micheal Martin said authorities had failed the victim.“It is the fundamental duty of the State to protect the children of the State, and regardless of the complexity or seriousness of any case, that duty must be fulfilled.” he stated.
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Deputy Prime Minister Simon Harris called the case “horrifying” but urged the public to exercise restraint. “It’s important that we have the opportunity to establish the facts and that the agencies also have the opportunity to present those facts.” said.
Justice Minister Jim O’Callaghan condemned the attacks on police, saying: “Peaceful protest is a cornerstone of our democracy. Violence is not.”
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