Dublin's city centre descended into chaos last night as violent protests erupted following a knife attack, culminating in running battles between rioters and mounted police units. The Irish capital witnessed unprecedented scenes of disorder as multiple vehicles were set ablaze and projectiles were hurled at officers.
City Centre Transformed Into Battlefield
What began as a protest outside the Irish Parliament building quickly escalated into full-scale rioting, with the iconic O'Connell Street becoming the epicentre of the violence. Rioters, many with faces covered, attacked police lines and set fire to a Dublin Bus vehicle and a tram, creating dramatic plumes of black smoke that billowed over the city.
"This is the worst violence I've witnessed in Dublin in years," said one shaken local business owner. "The city centre has been completely taken over by these rioters."
Mounted Police Deployed Against Protesters
In a rare display of force, Gardaí deployed mounted units to disperse the crowds, with officers on horseback charging at protesters who had gathered outside the GPO historical building. The dramatic scenes evoked memories of historical conflicts on the very same street.
The unrest was reportedly triggered by growing tensions within the community following a serious knife attack earlier in the day. However, the protest quickly spiralled out of control, with opportunistic elements joining the demonstration.
Emergency Services Overwhelmed
Fire crews struggled to reach burning vehicles as rioters blocked access routes and continued to confront police. Ambulance services were also deployed to treat injured officers and civilians caught up in the violence.
Local authorities have condemned the riots, with Justice Minister Helen McEntee describing the scenes as "intolerable and deeply disturbing." She praised the bravery of Garda officers facing what she called "mindless thuggery."
Community Leaders Appeal for Calm
As cleanup operations began this morning, community leaders have called for dialogue and peaceful resolution to the underlying tensions. The Epping pub, which had been at the centre of initial protests, remained boarded up with significant damage visible.
The Gardaí have launched a major investigation to identify those responsible for the night of violence, with CCTV footage from across the city centre being reviewed. Multiple arrests are expected throughout the day as order is gradually restored to the Irish capital.
