Home Office raid for illegal workers in Belfast results in 36 arrests

More than 30 individuals, including a teenage boy, have been taken into custody following a Home Office-led operation in Belfast.

The arrests occurred during a dawn raid conducted by immigration enforcement officers at a construction site in the historic Titanic Quarter on Wednesday. The Home Office, with support from Belfast Harbour Police, targeted illegal workers employed by a sub-contractor within the site.

A total of 35 Romanian men and a 16-year-old boy were detained for various immigration offences, including working in violation of visa conditions and entering the UK without permission to work. Additionally, one individual was arrested by the Home Office’s criminal and financial investigation team on suspicion of facilitating unlawful immigration.

Those apprehended have either agreed to voluntarily return to their home country or have been placed under strict immigration bail conditions, requiring regular reporting to the Home Office. The teenage boy has been referred to the relevant authorities for further investigation and support.

Minister for Border Security and Asylum, Dame Angela Eagle, emphasized the government's increased efforts to enforce immigration laws, stating: "We are intensifying our enforcement activity across the UK to crack down on those who violate the rules."

The Home Office confirmed that the operation was intelligence-led and part of a broader initiative to combat illegal employment. According to officials, visits targeting illegal workers have risen by 38% since the last election, aligning with the government's intensified enforcement strategy.

Eagle reaffirmed the government’s commitment to restoring control over the immigration system, warning that illegal workers and employers exploiting them will face legal consequences.

Many individuals working illegally are misled about their right to live and work in the UK, often enduring exploitative conditions such as long hours, low wages, and poor living standards. The Home Office warned that illegal workers risk arrest and deportation, while rogue employers could face fines of up to £60,000 and potential prison sentences for severe offences.

Paul McHarron, Northern Ireland's lead for immigration compliance and enforcement, stressed the importance of tackling illegal employment, highlighting its negative impact on the economy and the well-being of workers. He expressed gratitude to partner agencies for their role in the operation.

In the coming months, the government plans to introduce new counter-terror-style measures aimed at identifying, disrupting, and dismantling human smuggling networks.