Taoiseach Micheál Martin has said that his “thoughts” are with the victims of the attack in Stoneybatter earlier today, as he urged any members of the public with information to come forward.
“Our thoughts are with the victims of the shocking attacks in Stoneybatter earlier today,” the Fianna Fáil leader said in a social media post.
“I want to pay tribute to the Gardai and emergency services for their prompt response.
“I wish all those injured a full recovery and urge anyone with any information to contact Gardai.”
Gardaí are continuing to investigate all aspects of what has been described as a “serious incident”.
A man in his late 20s has been arrested and is currently detained at a Garda station in the North City under Section 4 of the Criminal Justice Act 1984. It is understood that he is a non-Irish national of Latin American ethnicity, but that he is not believed to be an International Protection applicant.
Justice Minister Jim O’Callaghan described the attack as “random.”
“I am receiving updates from an Garda Siochana about the situation in Stoneybatter,” the Fianna Fáil Minister said in a social media statement this evening.
“The suspect is now in custody and the victims of this awful random attack are receiving medical attention.”
Three men, aged between their mid-20s and mid-40s, sustained injuries during the incident and were taken to hospital for treatment. Two of them suffered serious but not life-threatening injuries, while the third had less serious injuries. All three remain in hospital receiving care.
A significant Garda response was deployed, comprising unarmed uniformed officers, Detective Gardaí, and support from Armed Support Units. The arrested suspect was initially intercepted near the scene by an unarmed uniformed Garda.
Several locations in Stoneybatter were cordoned off for technical examinations, and all traffic restrictions have now been lifted.
Gardaí are appealing for witnesses to come forward. Anyone who was in the Stoneybatter area between 2.30pm and 3.30pm, and may have video footage (including dashcam), is asked to share it with Gardaí. Those with information are encouraged to contact Bridewell Garda Station on (01) 666 8200, the Garda Confidential Line on 1800 666 111, or any Garda station.
Gardaí believe the suspect acted alone and are increasing their presence in the area to reassure the community.