Incendiary devices seized as part of investigation into violent scenes in Coolock
A number of incendiary devices have been seized in Dublin as part of an investigation into recent public order incidents in Coolock.
Violent scenes broke out at the site of the former Crown Paints factory, which has been earmarked for accommodation for international protection applicants, on the Malahide Road last week.
A number of people were arrested after demonstrations escalated and gardaí clashed with a large crowd which had gathered in the area.
An incident room has been established at Coolock Garda station to investigate the recent incidents at the site.
As part of that ongoing investigation, gardaí seized the incendiary devices during searches of the Moatfield Avenue and Dunree Park areas last Tuesday.
The searches were conducted in grass areas "in close proximity to the protest area", a statement from gardaí said.
Seven glass and plastic bottles containing flammable liquid were discovered during the search, alongside empty glass bottles and rags.
Plast bottles filled with a mixture of paint and oil, as well as packets of water balloons were also recovered.
The incendiary devices and materials have been seized and will be sent for technical examination.
"Such devices risk serious harm to human life as well as criminal damage to property, as has been witnessed in recent events," the Garda statement added.
Gardaí said that while the force respects the rights of citizens to exercise their constitutional rights, "this right does not extend to breaches of criminal law, the interference with the rights of other citizens to carry out their daily activities, or to attack members of An Garda Síochána".
Last Friday, three Garda members were injured as the situation in Coolock again escalated.
Gardaí continue to appeal for anyone who witnessed the recent incidents surrounding the site on Malahide Road to come forward.
Any road users with dashcam footage from the area between 9am and 8pm on Monday, July 15th, are also asked to make it available to investigating gardaí.
Those with information can contact Coolock Garda station at 01-666 42000, the Garda Confidential Line 1800-666 111 or any Garda station.
