36 Arrested in Belfast's Illegal Worker Operation

In a coordinated dawn operation in Belfast's Titanic Quarter, the Home Office arrested 36 individuals, including 35 Romanian men and a 16-year-old boy, for illegal working. The operation, supported by Belfast Harbour Police, targeted a construction site based on intelligence regarding illegal employment by a sub-contractor. Charges ranged from breaches of visa conditions to illegal entry into the UK. The arrested individuals have either agreed to return to their home country or are under strict immigration bail conditions, with the minor referred to relevant authorities for further support. This action is part of the UK government's broader enforcement strategy, which has seen a significant increase in immigration raids, with Minister for Border Security and Asylum Dame Angela Eagle emphasizing a commitment to addressing illegal working. The Home Office reported a record number of visits and arrests in January, reflecting intensified efforts to combat unlawful immigration.