A video apparently filmed on December 27 near Ikea shows what appears to be a man in a hi-vis vest near a bus at at a bus stop along the 140 route striking a child, who then falls to the ground.
The video spread quickly across social media, drawing widespread condemnation, particularly from some far-right channelsc, where several users have made threats to find and assault the man in the hi-vis, who appears to be from a non-white background.
A spokesperson for Dublin Bus confirmed the company is investigating the incident.
“We are aware of footage showing an alleged incident occurring adjacent to a bus on the 140 route,” the company said.
“We are actively investigating this footage and are taking this matter very seriously. The safety of our customers and employees is our priority.”
An Garda Síochána on Sunday said it was also investigating the matter.
“Gardaí are appealing for witnesses following a report of an alleged assault in Ballymun, Dublin 11, on Friday night, 27th December 2024,” the Gardaí said.
“The assault on a child by an adult male is reported to have occurred at a bus stop on Ballymun Road at approximately 9:50pm.
“Gardaí are appealing to anyone who may have witnessed this incident to come forward.
“In particular, anyone who may have been in the vicinity at the time or has direct knowledge of the incident is also urged to contact Gardaí.
“Anyone with any information is asked to contact Ballymun Garda Station on 01 666 4400, the Garda Confidential Line on 1800 666 111, or any Garda Station,” they added.
In response to the online comments, the Siptu union, which represents Dublin Bus staff, has raised safety concerns with Dublin Bus management and urged its members to remain vigilant.
The union has advised workers to leave any potentially unsafe situations and has emphasised the importance of maintaining their safety while working.
In response to rising concerns about safety and anti-social behaviour on public transport, Dublin Bus launched a new security initiative with the introduction of dedicated security guards back in October.
This 20-week pilot programme, known as the Safer Journeys Team, will see mobile units operating across key areas in Dublin.
The units are aimed at enhancing both passenger and staff safety, particularly during peak and late-night hours.
The initiative builds on ongoing efforts to address the surge in reported incidents and provides a visible, reassuring presence on the network.
While the programme has been welcomed by both employees and commuters, stakeholders have stressed that it is just one step in the broader effort to improve safety, with ongoing calls for further action, including the establishment of a dedicated Garda Public Transport Unit.
