Operation Exposure: A Sustained Police Response
The Police Service of Northern Ireland has confirmed that its dedicated investigation into the riots that swept through North Belfast in June 2026 has resulted in 35 arrests to date, with detectives warning that further arrests are expected as the investigation continues. Operation Exposure, which was launched in the immediate aftermath of the disturbances, represents one of the largest post-riot investigations in Northern Ireland in recent years.
The riots, which broke out following an attempted murder in North Belfast, saw scenes of serious disorder including attacks on police officers, the burning of vehicles, and damage to property. The violence, which was linked in part to anti-immigration sentiment, shocked communities across Northern Ireland and prompted widespread condemnation from political leaders and community representatives.
The Scale of the Investigation
Operation Exposure involves a dedicated team of detectives who have been reviewing thousands of hours of CCTV footage, social media content, and witness statements in their efforts to identify those responsible for the disorder. The PSNI has appealed to members of the public to come forward with any information that could assist the investigation, and has set up a dedicated hotline for tip-offs.
Of the 35 people arrested so far, a number have already been charged with offences including rioting, assault on police, and criminal damage. Others remain under investigation, with detectives working to build cases that will withstand scrutiny in court. The PSNI has emphasised that the investigation is ongoing and that those who participated in the disorder should not assume they have escaped justice.
Community Impact and Healing
The riots caused significant distress to communities in North Belfast, particularly those living in areas directly affected by the disorder. Residents reported feeling frightened and vulnerable during the disturbances, and there are ongoing concerns about the impact on community relations in an area that has a complex history of sectarian and inter-community tension.
Community and faith leaders have been working to support those affected by the riots and to promote dialogue between different communities. There is a recognition that the underlying issues that contributed to the disorder — including concerns about immigration, housing, and public services — need to be addressed through sustained engagement and policy action, rather than through violence.
Political Responses
The riots and the subsequent investigation have generated significant political debate at Stormont and at Westminster. Political leaders across the spectrum have condemned the violence, while also acknowledging the need to address the legitimate concerns of communities who feel left behind or threatened by rapid social change.
The First Minister and Deputy First Minister have both spoken of the importance of community cohesion and have pledged to work with community organisations to address the root causes of the disorder. The Secretary of State for Northern Ireland has also been briefed on the situation and has expressed support for the PSNI's investigation.
A Warning to Would-Be Rioters
Senior PSNI officers have used the progress of Operation Exposure to send a clear message to anyone who might be tempted to engage in disorder during the remainder of the marching season. The message is unambiguous: those who participate in rioting will be identified, arrested, and prosecuted. The PSNI has demonstrated its capacity and determination to pursue those responsible for the June disorder, and it is committed to doing the same in response to any future incidents.
As Northern Ireland approaches the peak of the marching season, the hope is that the combination of robust policing, community engagement, and political leadership will be sufficient to prevent a repeat of the scenes that shocked the region in June. The 35 arrests made under Operation Exposure are a significant step in that direction, but the work of building lasting community peace remains ongoing.
