Fireworks aimed at gardaí during 'youth rampage' in Cork City suburb
Fireworks were allegedly aimed at gardaí “like missiles” at a “youth rampage” in the north side of Cork City. Picture: We Are Cork
Fireworks were allegedly aimed at gardaí “like missiles” at a “youth rampage” in the north side of Cork city on Tuesday night.
Youths had reportedly gathered for an anniversary commemoration for a young male who died tragically before the mayhem erupted in Knocknaheeny.
A car crashed and went on fire and fireworks were set off and were aimed “like missiles” at first responders, sources said.
When garda patrol cars arrived, they were targeted by fireworks.
Gangs of youths, with faces covered, went on a “rampage”, a source said, and significantly outnumbered gardaí at the scene.
“Gardaí and emergency services attended the scene of a single vehicle road traffic collision involving a car, which occurred at Kilmore Road, Knocknaheeny, Cork, this evening at approximately 7.40pm,” the garda press office said in a statement.
“Two youths aged in their teens were conveyed to Cork University Hospital for treatment for injuries believed to be non-life-threatening at this time. The road has since reopened.
“Gardaí also received reports of a number of public order incidents at the same location.
“Investigations are ongoing," the statement added.
Sinn Fein TD Thomas Gould said that locals were distressed and in danger this evening.
“These gatherings are being organised through WhatsApp and Instagram and social media and gangs of youths are turning up.
“There’s a major problem with garda numbers in Cork. The justice system needs to work. People must be brought before the courts. Communities should not be living in fear.”
Mr Gould said he would be contacting senior Cork gardaí, the Justice Minister, and Garda Commissioner tomorrow about the incident.
“I’m from Knocknaheeny. It’s a great area. It was a minority from the area and people outside the area who came in causing trouble.
“This was an organised event. People locally were very upset with happened. They were very nervous of the fireworks in a residential area. It was a dangerous situation for people."
