THE Police Ombudsman has received a number of complaints about alleged officer misconduct since launching an investigation into the use of CS spray at a loyal order parade.
The independent police watchdog is examining the circumstances in which the spray was deployed during disturbances at the end of the parade involving junior members of the Orange Order in south Belfast on Tuesday evening.
Police said two officers were injured and damage was caused to a police motorcycle when adult participants in the parade attacked them.
A 26-year-old man was arrested and later charged with assaulting police and disorderly behaviour.
Commanders say trouble flared when a neighbourhood officer escorting the parade tried to prevent cars being damaged by passing participants.
But parade organisers claim police overreacted and criticised the use of CS spray in an area where children were present. They have said a number of children developed swollen lips and eyes after coming into contact with the spray.
A spokesman for the Police Ombudsman's office appealed for any witnesses to come forward.
"We were notified by police about the use of CS Spray during an incident on the Ormeau Road yesterday and have since received a number of complaints about what happened," he said.
First Minister Arlene Foster said she had spoken to Chief Constable George Hamilton about the matter.
