There has been an upward trend since 1995 in complaints by members of the public against RUC officers, according to the findings of the 1998 annual report of the North's Independent Commission for Police Complaints. However, the level of complaints against the police has decreased by 15 per cent on 1997 figures, which was an "exceptional year", with one incident generating 250 separate complaints.
The commission was established in 1987. Of the 2,648 cases submitted to it last year, 270 were investigated. Most complaints concerned allegations of assault, incivility, oppressive conduct and harassment.
Other complaints included neglect of duty, unlawful arrest, corrupt practice and irregularity in police practice.
Speaking from Washington, the Northern Secretary, Dr Mo Mowlam, said that in the light of the murder of the Lurgan solicitor, Ms Rosemary Nelson, it was important and appropriate to highlight the reference in the report to complaints made to the commission by and on behalf of Ms Nelson.
The commission outlined its "serious concern" to the Northern Secretary and the RUC Chief Constable about the RUC investigation carried out into alleged threats to her by police officers. The London Metropolitan Police was called in to take over the investigation and this report is now completed. The commission is due to hold a press conference today. One officer was formally disciplined in 1998 for abuse of authority as a result of an investigation initiated by the commission. Five officers were reprimanded following investigations instigated by the RUC.
Successful informal resolutions were achieved in 687 cases. This was the largest outcome ever for the acceptance of an apology or explanation by complainants.
The report represents the 11th and final report of the commission before the new office of the police ombudsman is established early next year. The office of the Independent Ombudsman was set up under the Northern Ireland Police Act, 1998.
The commission's chairman, Mr Paul Donnelly, said its efforts to facilitate the transitional arrangements towards the ombudsman's establishment had placed considerable extra demands on the body.