'Outrage' as man is attacked in Limerick over baseless accusations

THE ASSAULT of a man in Limerick following false allegations that circulated online, has prompted the gardaí and local organisations to warn of the dangerous consequences of spreading misinformation and disinformation.

A man of migrant background was hospitalised having been attacked in the Parnell Street area of Limerick city on July 1.

The day previously, the same man had been reported by members of the public to gardai at Henry Street garda station for alleged behaviour while seated in the People's Park in the city.

However, the gardai confirmed to Limerick Live that having carried out enquiries into these concerns they were satisfied that the alleged conduct was “not of a criminal nature and was nothing untoward”.

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Footage of individuals confronting the man while he sat in the park was shared widely online.

The gardai say that the man “fully co-operated with gardaí during the course of their enquiries”.

In a statement to Limerick Live, they stated that they are looking for witnesses following the assault of the same man in the Parnell Street area of Limerick city at approximately 3:45pm on July 1.

“A male (40s) sustained non-life threatening injuries and was brought to Limerick University Hospital for medical treatment,” the statement reads.

Gardaí confirmed that they are “aware that this is the same male that was subject of the claims expressed on June 30”.

“An Garda Síochána is aware of the misinformation and disinformation currently in circulation online with regard to the initial concerns raised with gardaí, and ask that any content shared is not forwarded onwards or further posted,” the statement added.

Doras, an independent organisation working to promote and protect the rights of people from a migrant background, released a statement regarding the attack. 

The Limerick based group wrote that, “We are appalled by the recent assault in Limerick of a man from a migrant background, following unfounded and fabricated allegations against him.”

“This was a targeted act of harassment and violence. It has understandably caused fear and distress within migrant communities – and, rightly, outrage among the vast majority of people in Limerick who reject racism and vigilantism.” 

Doras continued to say that, “Limerick has a proud tradition of being a welcoming and inclusive city. Organised hate and harassment of any group has no place here – and it must not be tolerated.”

“Doras is providing support to the man affected, and we stand firmly with all migrants and others who face harassment or violence simply because of who they are,” the organisation added.

Doras are urging the public to “please do not share or engage with posts or videos that spread false claims. Doing so can put innocent people in real danger.”

An Garda Síochána is appealing for witnesses to this incident of assault to contact Roxboro Road Garda Station on 061 214340, the Garda Confidential Line 1800 666 111 or any Garda station.