Irish police investigate attempted arson at asylum accommodation
(MENAFN) Four children, including a baby, were rescued after a fire broke out at a building housing people seeking international protection in Drogheda, County Louth, on Friday night. Gardaí (Irish police) are investigating the incident as attempted arson.
The fire was reported to authorities around 20:15 local time, and the blaze has since been extinguished. In total, five people were evacuated from the top floor, with several taken to hospital for medical checks.
In a statement, gardaí said initial reports suggested fireworks may have started the fire, but investigations indicate it was deliberately set by an unknown individual or individuals. “This was an extremely dangerous act endangering the lives of the residents, including children, who were in their home at the time,” a spokesperson said.
Ireland’s Justice Minister Jim O’Callaghan described the event as “a terrifying ordeal for the women and children living there,” confirming that fireworks were thrown into the building. He noted that alternative accommodation is being arranged for those affected and warned that “there will be serious consequences for those responsible.”
Taoiseach Micheál Martin condemned the attack as “deeply disturbing” and stated: “To put vulnerable families, including young children, at risk is abhorrent and has no place in our society. Our thoughts are with those affected by this horrifying experience.”
The scene has been technically examined, and a senior investigating officer is leading the inquiry from Drogheda Garda Station. Authorities have appealed for any information that could assist the investigation.
Legal Disclaimer:
MENAFN provides the
information “as is” without warranty of any kind. We do not accept
any responsibility or liability for the accuracy, content, images,
videos, licenses, completeness, legality, or reliability of the information
contained in this article. If you have any complaints or copyright
issues related to this article, kindly contact the provider above.
Legal Disclaimer:
EIN Presswire provides this news content "as is" without warranty of any kind. We do not accept any responsibility or liability for the accuracy, content, images, videos, licenses, completeness, legality, or reliability of the information contained in this article. If you have any complaints or copyright issues related to this article, kindly contact the author above.
