26/01/2026
Police Arrest Woman In West Belfast Illegal Lending Probe
Detectives from the PSNI's Predatory Lending Team carried out an arrest in West Belfast on Friday, 23 January. A 50-year-old woman was taken into custody on suspicion of illegal money lending and related criminal activity. She has since been released on bail as officers continue their enquiries.
The specialist team, comprised of dedicated detectives, focuses specifically on dismantling illegal lending networks and providing protection for those targeted by such schemes.
Commenting on the impact of these crimes, Detective Inspector Cathy O'Hara, said: "Illegal money lenders exploit vulnerable people in Northern Ireland's most marginalised communities. It is completely false to claim that they are providing a community service."
She further added: "Our Predatory Lending Team is a dedicated team of detectives whose job it is to take action against illegal lenders, and to support and safeguard victims."
The PSNI is urging anyone with relevant information or individuals seeking confidential guidance regarding illegal debts to get in touch. The Predatory Lending Team can be reached directly at 028 9070 0563 or via email at predatorylending@psni.police.uk.
For those who wish to remain anonymous, reports can be filed through the independent charity Crimestoppers by calling 0800 555 111 or by visiting their website at www.crimestoppers.uk.org.
You can find further information on illegal money lending and support agencies here - www.psni.police.uk/safety-and-support/advice-and-information/illegal-money-lending
The specialist team, comprised of dedicated detectives, focuses specifically on dismantling illegal lending networks and providing protection for those targeted by such schemes.
Commenting on the impact of these crimes, Detective Inspector Cathy O'Hara, said: "Illegal money lenders exploit vulnerable people in Northern Ireland's most marginalised communities. It is completely false to claim that they are providing a community service."
The PSNI is urging anyone with relevant information or individuals seeking confidential guidance regarding illegal debts to get in touch. The Predatory Lending Team can be reached directly at 028 9070 0563 or via email at predatorylending@psni.police.uk.
For those who wish to remain anonymous, reports can be filed through the independent charity Crimestoppers by calling 0800 555 111 or by visiting their website at www.crimestoppers.uk.org.
You can find further information on illegal money lending and support agencies here - www.psni.police.uk/safety-and-support/advice-and-information/illegal-money-lending
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Northern Ireland WeatherToday:A sunny but frosty start for many. However cloud increases by midday with a few showers reaching the north coast, these mostly light but spreading inland this afternoon. Chilly. Maximum temperature 8 °C.Tonight:A rather cloudy evening with scattered showers. Becoming drier through the night with some good clear spells developing and a patchy frost away from coasts. Minimum temperature 0 °C.