Fake News by Pakistani AI Website Sparks Turmoil in Ireland

On October 31, 2024, Halloween was celebrated worldwide, and the holiday spirit still lingers. Pakistan joined in the festivities as well. In Dublin, Ireland, tens of thousands witnessed an unusual Halloween trick. The AI-generated website “My Spirit Halloween,” based in Pakistan, announced a costume party in Dublin from 7 to 9 p.m. and promoted the popular Macnas Halloween Parade.

Thousands who gathered at the announced location in Dublin soon realized they had been tricked.

According to Vice, the large crowd prompted police intervention, as Dublin’s streets and sidewalks became nearly impassable. A witness, speaking with The Independent, described how the Gardaí (Irish national police) were working to clear the streets. The witness also shared the chaotic scene on TikTok, noting that Diwali celebrations added to the crowd. “It was funny,” he said. “A smile remains on our faces even now.”

Authorities Dismiss Fake Party Claims

Police had to go to X to inform those waiting on O’Connell Street to “disperse safely” because the situation was so bad.

A spokeswoman stated, denying online rumors to the contrary, “Please be advised that contrary to information being circulated online, no Halloween parade is scheduled to take place in Dublin city center this evening or tonight. All those gathered on O’Connell Street in expectation of such a parade are asked to disperse safely.”

“Everyone is trying to have a fun and safe Halloween. Having a parade to go to sounded really good. I know an awful lot of people turned up. It’s a terrible pity,” declared Janice Boylan, a Sinn Fein party councillor.