A TAXI driver who sustained head injuries following an assault in Dublin city centre in the early hours of Monday morning has died.
Moses Ayanwole, who was originally from Nigeria and living in Clonsilla, died in St James’s Hospital yesterday.
The 41-year-old taxi driver was assaulted by another man at about 12.20am on Monday at the junction of Pearse Street and Erne Street.
His attacker walked away in the direction of Erne Street.
The taxi driver was brought to St James’s Hospital where he died yesterday afternoon.
A man in his 20s who was arrested on Tuesday was later released without charge. A file is being prepared by gardaí for the Director of Public Prosecutions.
Asked whether gardaí believed there was any racist motivation to the attack, a spokesman said they were not in a position to comment given that the investigation was still at an early stage.
However, it is understood gardaí believe at this stage that the assault is likely to have followed a dispute over a fare and was not racially motivated.
Rosanna Flynn, of Residents against Racism, said the incident would increase fears among African taxi drivers. She said Mr Ayanwole was “a very gentle, good and religious man” who leaves a wife and son behind.
Gardaí are appealing to witnesses to contact them on 01-6669000.