Gardaí are examining mobile phone imagery and CCTV footage to identify two gangs of teenagers involved in separate attacks on Indian nationals in Tallaght, southwest Dublin, last Saturday evening.
In the first incident, a 31-year-old man was attacked by a gang of youths in Sean Walsh Park, near the Square in Tallaght.
He had his phone stolen, but there were no reports of racial or derogatory abuse.
The second attack happened around 20 minutes later in Parkhill Lawns, Kilnamanagh, about 2.5km away, and involved another gang of teens.
This group was separate from the first gang, although gardaí believe they are linked.
In the second attack, a 45-year-old Indian man was stripped of his trousers and sustained serious injuries, including lacerations to his face and head.
Gardaí are investigating a hate motive as one line of inquiry in this case.
Sources said this suspicion may be confirmed as evidence is gathered.
Images showing a deep gash above the victim’s left eye and blood on his face, hands, and legs circulated on social media.
According to Garda sources, the attack followed “false reports” about a man exposing himself at a nearby playground.
These allegations are frequently spread by far-right groups in Ireland and abroad to exploit public fears and potentially incite violence against immigrants or foreigners.
Videos have circulated on social media accounts linked to known far-right agitators in Ireland, either documenting attacks on innocent people or showing others committing them.
Passersby came to the second victim’s aid, including one woman who posted a detailed message online about the man’s injuries, his teenage attackers, and the presence of agitators in the area.
A community event organised by People Before Profit–Solidarity, Sinn Féin, the Socialist Party, and the Social Democrats is being held at the Rua Red centre near the Square at 6.30pm today. It was originally due to take place at the Kilnamanagh roundabout.
Laura Gaskell of Dublin South-West Together said: “This cowardly racist attack has shocked Tallaght. People are disgusted that this hatred is trying to take root on our streets. We want to feel safe in our neighbourhoods, whether we were born in Tallaght or moved here.
“This and other recent attacks are directly linked to the spreading of misinformation and racist hate online, and campaigns against migrant asylum seekers and workers that have been designed to stoke up violence.”
She added: “The man who was attacked works, prays and lives here. He did not deserve this. No one does.”
Garda Headquarters has appealed for witnesses to come forward and has asked the public not to post or reshare social media content related to the incident to protect the victim’s privacy.