The number of PSNI officers under investigation for alleged abuse of position for sexual purposes has risen to 29, according to figures released by the Police Ombudsman. Currently, 26 serving officers and three former officers face active inquiries.

The updated breakdown was disclosed after an internal review overturned an earlier decision to withhold the split between serving and former officers. The Ombudsman had initially refused a Freedom of Information request, arguing that low numbers could lead to identification of individuals.

The release came one day before the Ombudsman announced the arrest of a serving PSNI officer on suspicion of misconduct involving abuse of position for sexual purposes.

In April, the Ombudsman published a report analysing such allegations between 2018 and 2024. At that time, 20 serving and two former officers were under investigation, with 39 women identified as alleged victims. All were female and assessed as vulnerable.

The report found victims often had multiple vulnerabilities, such as prior victimisation, mental health difficulties, domestic abuse, suicidal ideation or addiction. Some were involved in criminal activity, making them particularly susceptible to exploitation.

Ombudsman Chief Executive Hugh Hume described such conduct as one of the most serious forms of corruption in policing. He said the power imbalance means many women do not report directly for fear of reprisal, and some victims are so vulnerable they do not recognise the officer’s behaviour as abusive.

Compared with April, total investigations have increased by seven. Serving officers under investigation rose from 20 to 26, and former officers from two to three.

The PSNI has previously stated that seven of the serving officers have been suspended and five have been moved to alternative duties. The force has not disclosed the status of the remaining 14 officers.

No timescale has been given for the completion of the investigations or for any disciplinary or criminal proceedings that may follow.