32 arrests made in major police operation targeting violence against women and girls

Officers conducting a vehicle checkpoint during this week's dedicated policing operation.

Police have arrested 32 people during a coordinated operation aimed at tackling violence against women and girls and bringing offenders to justice across Northern Ireland.

The proactive policing initiative, carried out on Thursday 16th October, was led by Superintendent Sinead McIldowney and involved collaboration across Neighbourhood Policing Teams, Local Policing Teams and District Support Teams, with additional support from detectives in the Public Protection Branch and the Criminal Investigation Department.

Throughout the 24-hour operation, which spanned six policing districts — Derry City and Strabane, Mid and East Antrim, Antrim and Newtownabbey, Lisburn and Castlereagh, Causeway Coast and Glens, and Ards and North Down — officers made 127 attempts to locate wanted individuals actively avoiding apprehension.

These efforts resulted in 32 immediate arrests linked to offences including domestic abuse, serious assault, drink driving and breach of bail. In addition, several summonses were served and outstanding court fines settled.

Among those detained was a man arrested on suspicion of a domestic incident involving a six-year-old child, and another man wanted by Police Scotland on suspicion of assault occasioning grievous bodily harm (GBH).

Superintendent McIldowney said:

“The results highlight the value of proactive policing and the tenacity of our officers who are committed every day to keeping our towns and streets safe places.

“In addition to the arrests made during this 24-hour period, our officers also conducted bail compliance checks, conducted vehicle checkpoints and engaged with community members to provide reassurance and visibility throughout the duration of the operation.”

She added:

“One of our focuses is the policing priority of targeting violence against women and girls. A number of arrests were made in connection with domestic violence and abuse.

“We remain committed to doing everything we can to prevent harm, call out unacceptable attitudes and behaviours and protect women and girls wherever they live - in towns, cities and rural communities.”

Superintendent McIldowney reiterated the PSNI’s determination to hold perpetrators to account, saying:

“We want those who target women and girls in Northern Ireland to know that we are actively pursuing you, using the tools at our disposal to bring offenders to justice. Tackling Violence against Women and Girls requires commitment from all — where perpetrators are held to account, communities stand together, and we work with partners to make every space safe. This remains our goal and our business as usual approach.”

Police are encouraging anyone with concerns or information to make contact. Reports can be made by calling 101, in an emergency via 999, or online at www.psni.police.uk/makeareport.

Alternatively, information can be provided anonymously through Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111 or at www.crimestoppers-uk.org.