Daijiworld Media Network- Dublin
Dublin, Aug 5: In a shocking incident that has sparked widespread concern within the Indian community in Ireland, an Indian-origin cab driver was brutally assaulted in an apparent racist attack in Ballymun, a suburb of Dublin.
The victim, identified as Lakhvir Singh, who has been residing in Ireland for over 23 years and has been working as a cab driver for more than a decade, was attacked by two young passengers on the night of Friday, August 1, near Poppintree, Ballymun.
Speaking to Dublin Live, Mr Singh recounted the harrowing experience. He said he had picked up two men, believed to be in their early twenties, from the northside and driven them to their destination in Poppintree. Upon arrival, instead of paying or exiting peacefully, the duo launched an unprovoked assault on him. Mr Singh was struck twice on the head with a bottle. As the attackers fled the scene, they reportedly shouted, "Go back to your own country," leaving Mr Singh injured and emotionally shaken.
The injured driver was immediately rushed to Beaumont Hospital, where he was treated for non-life-threatening injuries. However, the emotional trauma appears to have left a deeper scar. “In ten years, I’ve never seen anything like this. I’m really scared now and off the road. It will be very hard to go back to work. My children are terrified,” he shared.
The Irish police, known as Gardaí, have confirmed that an investigation is underway. “Gardaí are investigating an assault reported to have occurred at approximately 11:45 pm on Friday, 1st August 2025, in Poppintree, Ballymun, Dublin 11. A man in his 40s was taken to Beaumont Hospital for treatment of non-life-threatening injuries. Investigations are ongoing,” a spokesperson stated.
This incident follows a disturbing trend of attacks targeting Indian nationals in Ireland. Just days ago, a 40-year-old Indian man was reportedly beaten and stripped by a gang of teenagers in Tallaght. In another incident, a 32-year-old Indian data scientist suffered a fractured cheekbone after being attacked by six teenagers near his residence.
In response to the spate of such incidents, the Indian Embassy in Dublin has issued a safety advisory for Indian nationals residing in Ireland. “There has been an increase in the instances of physical attacks reported against Indian citizens in Ireland recently. The embassy is in touch with the authorities concerned,” the advisory noted.
The embassy also urged all Indian citizens to remain vigilant, avoid isolated areas, especially during late hours, and report any suspicious activity to local authorities.
As investigations continue, the Indian community in Ireland is left grappling with fear, insecurity, and growing concerns about their safety in a country many have long called home.