Ireland Deports 35 Nigerians, Including Women and Children, in Large-Scale Immigration Operation

 

In a significant immigration enforcement effort, Irish authorities have deported 35 individuals to Nigeria, including nine women and five children, as part of a coordinated operation overseen by the Garda National Immigration Bureau (GNIB).

The deportees were placed on a chartered flight that departed from Dublin Airport late Wednesday, June 4, 2025. A statement released by An Garda Síochána, Ireland’s national police service, confirmed the details of the operation.

According to the GNIB, the group consisted of 21 adult males, nine adult females, and five minors. The children, officials clarified, were traveling as part of family units.

“On Wednesday 4th June 2025, the Garda National Immigration Bureau (GNIB) carried out a removal operation involving 35 individuals (21 males, nine females, and five children). An Garda Síochána continues to cooperate with the Department of Justice in enforcing the State’s immigration policies,” the statement said.

The mass deportation followed the legal conclusion of each individual’s case, meaning they had exhausted all available appeals and options to remain in Ireland. The operation is part of Ireland’s broader effort to enforce immigration law and uphold removal orders issued by the Department of Justice.

However, the move has sparked mixed reactions across Irish society and online platforms. Immigration advocacy groups and human rights organizations have voiced concern over the speed and scale of deportations in recent months, especially when children and families are involved.

Critics argue that a more humane, case-by-case approach should be prioritized, particularly for vulnerable individuals who may face hardship upon return. Others, however, support the government’s firm stance, citing the need to maintain the integrity of Ireland’s immigration system.

This latest deportation is one of the largest single-day removals in recent Irish history, and comes amid increasing scrutiny over how asylum and immigration cases are handled in the country.

Irish authorities have not disclosed the identities or individual circumstances of the deported persons, citing privacy concerns and data protection regulations.