Afghan hunger strikers threaten suicide if removed

Some of the 41 Afghan hunger strikers in St Patrick’s Cathedral in Dublin say that they will kill themselves if they are removed by force.

Spokesperson for the group Osman Hotak has said the protestors have gathered rope from around the church and will hang themselves if gardaí attempt to remove them.

At least 30 gardaí are stationed around the cathedral, and at least five Garda vans are parked outside the gates.

The Health Service Executive has obtained a High Court order for the juveniles to be made wards of court and legal representation has been appointed to act on behalf of the minors.

Mr Hotak said the group had received a letter this morning from Church of Ireland officials asking them to stop their protest and leave the church.