A man has been charged in connection with the alleged assault of a female juvenile in Saggart, Co Dublin, in the early hours of Monday morning.

The man, aged in his 20s, was arrest on Monday and has since been charged. He is due in court on Tuesday morning.

The incident was reported to have occurred in the Saggart area between 11pm on Sunday night and 1.30am on Monday morning.

As part of the investigation, Gardaí are seeking to speak with anyone who was in the Citywest Drive, Garter Lane, Citywest Luas stop, or Saggart Luas stop areas during that time frame.

The alleged assault was reported in the area of the Citywest Hotel complex, which has been purchased by the Government for the accommodation of international protection applicants.

In a statement, gardaí said they are appealing to the public for any information that could assist the investigation.

Anyone with information is asked to contact Clondalkin Garda Station on (01) 666 7600, the Garda Confidential Line on 1800 666 111, or any garda station.

Gardaí say investigations are ongoing.

The child and family agency Tusla has confirmed that the young girl had been volunteered to its care by her family in February.

It said she was living in a fully staffed, registered residential placement, provided by a funded partner in the community and voluntary sector.

In a statement, the agency added: “She absconded from staff whilst on a planned recreational trip with staff in the city centre.

“Staff immediately reported her missing to An Garda Síochána.

“She was later found to have returned to a relative’s home, again absconding from that house later in the evening.

“She remained in phone contact with staff but would not identify her precise location.

“She subsequently told staff that she had been involved in a serious incident.

“Staff did eventually ascertain her location through details she provided, and alerted AGS who did locate her.

“Our priority now is on supporting the young girl and her family and liaising with An Garda Síochána.” 

An Garda Síochána also said there had been incorrect reports that the incident involved a fatal stabbing.