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Investigating complaints about the police

How to make a complaint

What can I complain about?
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What we do

The Police Ombudsman’s Office investigates complaints about the conduct of police officers in Northern Ireland. We are not part of the police. Our investigations are evidence-based and we treat both complainants and police officers with fairness and impartiality.

What can you complain about?

Our online guide provides information about the complaints we investigate and those we don't, about what happens after you make a complaint, and about the possible outcomes. You will also find answers to common questions about the investigation process.

Investigations and reports

The website provides access to summaries of hundreds of investigations carried out by the Office. They include reports covering the broad range of complaints we have investigated – everything from alleged rudeness, up to allegations of police involvement in murder.

Latest News

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10 April 2025

Failure to link correct rifle to murders 'deprived RUC' of investigative opportunities

Public Statement: Investigation into police conduct relating to the circumstances of the murders of Mr Seamus Morris and Mr Peter Dolan on 8 August 1988
7 April 2025

‘No credible evidence’ to verify allegations about RUC Officer in fatal shooting of Michael Tighe
27 March 2025

Inspection recommendations will help achieve ongoing improvement in abuse of position investigations

Information for Young People

The Police Ombudsman's Office is where to go if you want to make a complaint about a police officer in Northern Ireland. We are completely separate from the police, and don't take sides between police officers and the people who make complaints about them.

Useful information for young people

Statistics and Research

We publish a wide range of statistical information about the complaints and allegations received by the Police Ombudsman's Office. We also publish other research including the levels of satisfaction of police officers and public awareness of the Office.

More details about our statistics

5%
Increase

The number of complaints received by the Police Ombudsman’s Office during 2023/24 increased by 5% from the previous year. This is the highest number of complaints received by the Office in the last five years.

35%

Criminal Investigation was the most common situation which gave rise to complaints during 2023/24 - accounting for 35% (1,185) of the 3,353 complaints received.

Working for the Police Ombudsman

The Police Ombudsman can offer varied, interesting and rewarding career opportunities. Click here for information about posts we are currently seeking to fill.

Check out the latest vacancies