Violent protests have erupted in Dublin following a suspected knife attack on three young children and a woman outside a school in the city. The incident has left the community in shock and has sparked outrage, prompting clashes between protesters and the police.

The attack took place on Thursday when a five-year-old girl and a woman in her 30s were seriously injured outside the primary school in Dublin. Both victims are currently receiving emergency treatment. Two other children, a five-year-old boy and a six-year-old girl, sustained less serious injuries, with the boy already being discharged from the hospital.

Authorities have detained a man in his 50s in connection with the incident. He has also been hospitalized with serious injuries. Police have stated that they are following a definite line of inquiry and are not searching for any additional suspects at this time. They have emphasized that this appears to be a standalone attack and not related to terrorism.

In the aftermath of the incident, clashes broke out between protesters and the police in Dublin's city center. Reports indicate that a police car and a bus were set on fire, and looting occurred at a footwear store with individuals seen running away with stolen items.

Irish police chief Drew Harris condemned the violent scenes and attributed the disorder to a "complete lunatic faction driven by far-right ideology," cautioning against the spread of misinformation.

Eyewitness accounts describe the chaotic scene as onlookers rushed to aid the victims. Siobhan Kearney, who witnessed the incident from across the street, recounted how she and others disarmed the attacker and restrained him until the arrival of the police.

Irish Prime Minister Leo Varadkar expressed his shock at the incident and commended the quick response of the emergency services. He assured the public that the authorities had detained a suspect and were actively investigating the incident.

The news of the attack has sent shockwaves throughout the community, with politicians and leaders expressing their horror and offering support to those affected. Mary Lou McDonald, leader of the Sinn Fein opposition party, conveyed her solidarity with the families of the victims and praised the police for their swift response.

As investigations continue, authorities are determined to determine the motive behind the attack and bring those responsible to justice. The incident serves as a sobering reminder of the need for community vigilance and support during times of tragedy.