Gardaí are investigating after Chief Imam Shaykh Dr Umar Al-Qadri has said he experienced a “deliberate hate crime attack” in Tallaght, Co Dublin on Thursday evening.
The chairperson of the Irish Muslim Council was in hospital receiving medical treatment after the attack, which left him with broken teeth and a swollen face.
Gardaí do not comment on individual cases but confirmed an incident took place and are investigating a robbery and assault that occurred in Tallaght.
“I have experienced a deliberate hate crime attack in Tallaght a few hours ago. I would like to express my gratitude to the kind Irish lady and two Irish gentlemen who assisted me when I collapsed and safely helped me into my car,” said Dr Al-Qadri.
“I am currently receiving medical care at the hospital. Also, thank you my community members who have come immediately to my support,” said on X, formerly Twitter.
"I was hospitalised last night and underwent a CT scan. Thankfully, there is no brain injury or broken jaw, but the left side of my face is severely swollen and my front teeth are damaged.
"It appears that this was a planned attack, as I met two Irish individuals who had arranged a meeting in Tallaght. The next thing I remember is feeling disoriented in my car, surrounded by helpful Irish neighbours of the area I was visiting, as the Gardai and ambulance arrived.
"I was injured and had lost consciousness, but my mobile phone was still with me, allowing me to contact my friends who arrived within 15 minutes.
"They took me to the hospital where I stayed overnight. Alhamdulillah, I am doing alright, considering the circumstances, and it could have been much worse.
"Thank You for your prayers and well wishers. Having lived in Ireland for 21 years, this has never happened to me. This incident doesn’t change the fact that I deeply appreciate and cherish Ireland and its people. Is breá liom Éire.”
A statement from Gardaí said: “Gardaí are investigating a robbery and assault that occurred in Tallaght, Dublin 24.
“One man required medical attention following the incident.”
Gardaí confirmed that investigations are ongoing at this time.