Police in Northern Ireland arrested 36 individuals during a 12-hour operation on Thursday, March 12. The action targeted people wanted on outstanding warrants linked to ongoing investigations.

Arrests related to domestic abuse, serious assault, road traffic offences and breaches of court conditions. Officers focused on five districts: Lisburn and Castlereagh, Ards and North Down, Causeway Coast and Glens, Mid and East Antrim, and Antrim and Newtownabbey.

Superintendent Johnston McDowell stated the operation showed police resolve to protect the public, assist victims and hold offenders accountable. He noted that police will keep pursuing those evading arrest or ignoring court orders.

McDowell highlighted tackling violence against women and girls as a main priority. He said such actions aim to shield victims, stop additional harm and affirm that domestic abuse will face consequences.

Officers acted on intelligence and active enquiries at various sites. Beyond arrests, they handled enforcement tasks like issuing summonses and settling fines and court matters.

The effort builds on a prior operation in October 2025 with 32 arrests across six districts in one day. Police plan to run similar operations to find wanted persons and curb further crimes.