The Police Ombudsman for Northern Ireland has reported that allegations of abuse of position for sexual purposes account for more than a third of her office's most serious cases. Jacqui Durkin, who took up the post in June, described the figure of 36 percent as deeply concerning.

One of those investigations centres on a former officer arrested last year on suspicion of rape and dozens of other alleged offences.

PSNI Chief Constable Jon Boutcher has previously stated that any abuse of position for sexual purposes is wholly unacceptable and represents a serious breach of trust and a violation of the high standards expected of police officers. Durkin said she shares those views and that the chief constable has publicly described it as a serious form of corruption.

Durkin said it is difficult to comment on why the number of such cases is increasing.

Durkin succeeded Marie Anderson, whose final two years in the role were overshadowed by a police investigation into potential misconduct in office. Anderson was not charged with any offence.

Durkin stated the work of the office has continued despite challenges in recent years, and that building public confidence and police confidence in the office is incumbent on her.

The ombudsman's office employs more than 100 staff and has an annual budget of about £12 million. Durkin said she has made the Department of Justice aware of the pressures the office is under, and that Troubles legacy cases currently present an acute financial challenge.