Gardai are investigating after a video appearing to show a racially motivated, Covid-19 related attack was circulated on social media on Thursday evening.
It shows four individuals on Galway’s Quay Street physically attacking Xi’An Street Food restaurant, which was closed at the time, and shouting racially abusive statements at the people inside.
In the video, which has been viewed several thousand times, two men and two women also kick the door of the premises several times.
In an apparent reference to Covid-19, one of the people captured shouts: “It’s ye who brought the virus into the world.” Another adds: “They brought the virus into the town”.
One person, a male in his 40s, received minor injuries in the incident and was taken to University Hospital Galway.
Local councillor Owen Hanley said he was disgusted and added: “These actions are completely unacceptable and not representative of the welcoming heart of Galway people.”
A spokesperson said: "Gardaí in Galway are investigating an incident of criminal damage that occurred on Quay Street, Galway, on Thursday April 16, 2020 at approximately 5.45pm.
"During the incident a male in his 40s was injured and was taken to University Hospital Galway with non-life threatening injuries.
"Gardaí have identified all parties involved and are following a definite line of enquiry.
"No arrests have been made and investigations are ongoing."
