234 arrests following 187 immigration enforcement raids in Northern IrelandBy Rebecca Black, Press AssociationSome 234 people have been arrested following 187 immigration enforcement raids in Northern Ireland. Businesses, including nail bars, car washes, barbers and takeaway shops, were among those targeted in more than 17,400 raids UK-wide, which resulted in more than 12,300 arrests. In Northern Ireland, 187 raids were carried out in 2025, leading to 234 arrests – a 76 per cent and 169 per cent rise respectively compared to 2024. Home Secretary Shabana Mahmood stated there is “no place for illegal working in our communities”. “I will stop at nothing to restore order and control to our borders.”Northern Ireland Secretary Hilary Benn said: “Illegal working undercuts honest businesses across Northern Ireland and fuels the criminal gangs who profit from human exploitation.

Source: Irish Independent January 13, 2026 14:59 UTC