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A man was beaten by an angry mob in west Dublin shortly after being confronted by a vigilante group who made serious accusations against him.

The man, whose confrontation was filmed live on Facebook, was attacked by up to 20 people who turned up at the scene during the broadcast.

It is not believed anyone was seriously injured during the incident.

A separate video posted of the attack shows a number of people crowding the man with some throwing punches and kicks towards him.

Gardai could not comment on the specific case but expressed their concern at how vigilante groups have been operating in general.

A spokesperson said: “An Garda Síochána does not comment on or discuss speculation about the specific activities of such groups operating in this jurisdiction (or on videos and material published online by third parties).

“The actions by such groups are a cause of concern for An Garda Síochána and for other police services.

“The activity engaged in and the manner of confrontation between such groups and their targets has the potential for violence and could result in harm to persons present.

“In addition, there are also concerns over the legality of the actions of such groups operating in Ireland.

“Finally, the manner in which such groups operate and how they interact with their chosen targets prior to and during the arranged meeting has the potential to affect future criminal proceedings.

“It is An Garda Síochána’s primary role to investigate crime and enforce enacted legislation. An Garda Síochána would urge anyone with information relating to the potential sexual exploitation of children to report it immediately to An Garda Síochána where it will be investigated by professional investigators.”