Gardaí believe Cork assault never took place

A Garda spokesman said today they were "satisfied" the alleged assault on a Cork teenager on Sunday night did not happen.

Mr Mark Higgins (17) was hospitalised after he was reportedly set alight by a group of youths in Cork city demanding money.

It had been reported that Mr Higgins, who suffered burns on his neck and hand, was doused in a liquid and set on fire by a group of teenagers.

However, following a technical examination, however, gardaí believe the attack never occured.

An investigation is ongoing to establish how Mr Higgins was injured.