Protesters gather outside Athlone court and Garda station

A crowd of up to 200 protesters gathered outside Athlone District Court early today (Monday) in the expectation that a court hearing, related to the alleged sexual assault of two young girls, could take place there.

The protest moved down the street to Athlone Garda Station during the afternoon.

Placards with messages about protecting children were raised by some of the protesters, many of whom were parents.

The alleged severe sexual assault is said to have happened at 4pm on Saturday in the Athlone area.

The victims, both girls, are understood to be aged just six and nine.

Three men were arrested last weekend and two of these have been released without charge. 

As of 5pm, a third man, who is aged 30 and is known to Gardai in the Midlands, was still being held for questioning at Athlone Garda Station.