Gardaí examining if assault on Indian priest in Kildare Town was racially motivated

Gardaí are looking into the prospect of Thursday night's sickening assault on an Indian priest in Kildare Town being of a racial nature as they continue their investigations into the attack.

45-year-old Fr Manuel Karipott was assaulted by two men thought to be in their late teens shortly after 10pm in the vicinity of White Abbey on Thursday night, which led to the priest being taken to Naas Hospital for treatment for his injuries.

The two youths, one of whom was carrying a glass bottle, set upon the church worker in a sickening unprovoked attack, resulting in injuries to Fr Karipott's mouth and one of his eyes.

According to the Irish Daily Mail, Gardaí investigating the attack are examining whether or not it was racially motivated. No arrests have been made in connection with the incident, but CCTV footage is being examined as part of the investigation.

The priest's phone was also stolen during the assault.

Fr Karipott is currently recovering from his injuries at home.