Dublin’s city centre has descended into chaos as rioters take advantage of the situation, with reports of looting and widespread violence. The scene at O’Connell Street has turned into a battleground, with rioters wreaking havoc on the streets.

Eyewitnesses report that a Foot Locker store has become a prime target for looters, who are seen ransacking the establishment. The situation has escalated further as individuals are seen throwing bottles at the gardaí, the Irish police force, who are attempting to restore order.

The rioters have armed themselves with metal bars, using them to smash shop windows, leaving a trail of destruction in their wake. In a coordinated effort, the gardaí are attempting to disperse a significant portion of the crowd onto nearby roads.

Amidst the chaos, the air is thick with smoke from bus and car fires, adding to the mayhem. The garda helicopter is actively monitoring the situation from above, providing crucial aerial surveillance.

The violence has escalated to the point where projectiles such as crowd control barriers and wood are being hurled at the gardaí. Disturbing footage circulating on social media shows a Luas tram being vandalised, with smashed windows and items set ablaze inside.

The escalating situation has prompted the deployment of additional resources, including frontline gardaí and Public Order Units, in large numbers throughout Dublin City Centre. The authorities are advising the public to avoid the north city centre area for their safety.

As the extent of the unrest becomes apparent, the Garda Commissioner, speaking from outside Mountjoy Garda Station, has condemned the scenes as “disgraceful.” He has emphasised that these actions are being driven by a “lunatic hooligan faction” with a far-right ideology.

To combat the violence, extra resources from Dublin and surrounding regions have been called in, reflecting the seriousness of the situation. Luas and Dublin Bus services in the city centre have been temporarily suspended due to the ongoing unrest.