brutal beating Gardaí investigate vicious Ballyfermot gang assault that left 11-year-old in hospital

Gardaí have said investigations are ongoing into an assault in Ballyfermot last week that left one young man requiring hospital treatment for facial injuries. 

It has been reported that Ben O’Connor (11) was with a number of friends near the skatepark in Ballyfermot on Friday last when he went to use the toilet facilities at the nearby leisure centre.

However, as he left the premises at about 6.50pm, he was grabbed by a gang group of up to seven teenagers who then dragged him away out of public sight.

They then set upon him and continued beating him even after he fell to the ground.

They then recorded the injuries they inflicted on their phones before fleeing, leaving the 11-year-old covered in blood.

Ben was taken to Temple Street Hospital as another boy informed his mother what had happened.

Taking to social media, Ms O’Connor said: “My 11-year-old son was dragged away from his friends and attacked.

“My child had his face stamped on numerous times by what looked like 15/16-year-olds… All in black… masks on.”

She added: “They recorded this. Please anyone any information...

“And thank you to the very sensible boy who came to find me to tell me my son was taken away...I'm forever grateful...I've never felt fear like it.

Gardai have confirmed that they are investigating “an alleged assault which took place in the Ballyfermot area on Friday, February 11 at approximately 6.50pm”.

“A male youth received injuries and was taken to hospital to receive treatment for facial injuries,” gardai said.

“No arrests have been made. Investigations are ongoing.”