PSNI

He welcomed the fact it recognised the "dedication and commitment" of the PSNI's workforce.

Some £3m worth of investment aimed at grassroots organisations and campaign groups was announced last year, alongside a dedicated strategic framework - in other words laying out an action plan with the PSNI, Department of Justice and other groups to try to promote awareness and education.

"Those responsible must be held to account and this dangerous weapon seized, and I urge anyone with information to come forward to the PSNI."

An Garda Síochána said they could not comment as it was a matter for the PSNI.

The ombudsman’s investigation, which began in March 2021, resulted in a file of 1,400 pages being sent to the PSNI.