An Garda Siochana in Donegal have arrested four people for alleged immigration offences this year, it has emerged.
It is understood that at least one of the arrests came following an inspection of a business premises in the Donegal area.
Gardaí in multi-agency operations arrested all those in question under the Immigration Act 2004 and the Employments Permits Act 2003.
The arrests were part of ongoing policing operations and as part of Operation Thor.
These inspections are intended to address issues including immigration, people trafficking, employment law, revenue offences and the welfare of persons.
It is understood that a number of other persons have been encountered and processed by An Garda Síochána with regards to regularising their immigration status and the processing of deportation orders.
However, Gardaí were unable to comment further on the arrests because some matters are before the courts.
A spokesperson told Donegal Daily: “Members of An Garda Síochána, including appointed local Immigration Officers participated alongside officers from Revenue Commissioners, Department of Employment Affairs and Social Protection and Workplace Relations Commission in planned operations.
“During the course of operations to date this year, four persons have been arrested by members of An Garda Síochána in respect of alleged offences under the Immigration Act 2004 and the Employments Permits Act 2003.
“For operational reasons, it is not possible to elaborate further with respect to this matter.
“The other agencies referenced have and are following up on issues arising from operations and inspections conducted in Donegal.”