Over 20,000 people stopped and searched or questioned by PSNI
Date published:
Topics:
Crime and justice
New official statistics published today by NISRA statisticians in the Police Service of Northern Ireland (PSNI) present information on the use of stop and search powers by the PSNI between 1 July 2025 and 30 June 2026.
Key findings
Between 1 July 2025 and 30 June 2026:
- A total of 20,445 people were stopped and searched or questioned, 10% more than the previous 12 months.
- 23% of all stops resulted in some form of outcome, while the arrest rate was 7%.
- The use of non-counter-terrorism powers increased by 9% compared with the previous 12 months.
- The use of counter-terrorism powers increased by 29% compared with the previous 12 months.
- Of those stopped, 1,691 were aged 17 and under. Almost two thirds (64%) of these stops were under the Misuse of Drugs Act.
About this publication
This report provides a 12-month overview of the use of stop and search powers by the PSNI. It includes data on:
- Reasons for searches
- People stopped and searched or questioned by age, gender, ethnicity and policing district
- Outcomes of stops and searches
Further information
Read the full report, data tables and background information: Stop and search statistics | PSNI