Assaults Dominate: Revealing the Top Cause of Police Officer Injuries

25 May 2025

The leading cause of police officer injuries in Northern Ireland has been revealed through new statistics. Data gathered between 2022 and 2024 showed a total of 7,014 injuries recorded for officers hurt on duty, with assaults standing out as the primary cause. This accounted for 42% of the cases, totaling 2,933 incidents. Lifting or handling individuals followed as the second most common cause, resulting in 944 incidents. Other injury sources include road traffic collisions, slips, trips, falls, injuries from animals, and being struck by moving objects.

A total of 2,196 officers were injured in 2024, indicating an increase from the 2,109 injuries reported in 2022. These figures highlight a growing trend in officer harm, calling for enhanced workplace safety measures and support services. Financially, data from PSNI disclosed a rise in compensation claims filed by injured officers over the last three years. In 2024, 84 claims were submitted, up from 76 in 2022. Notably, while the number of claims increased, actual payouts decreased. In 2022, 32 claims were settled with a total compensation of £372,963. The following year, 14 claims were resolved, with damages totaling £109,127.50. Similar trends continued in 2024, with 10 settlements amounting to £71,562.50 in compensation. PSNI Chief Constable Jon Boutcher addressed the assault issue during the Police Federation of Northern Ireland Annual Conference, emphasizing support for police and condemning assaults on officers. The issue of officer safety and public tolerance towards assaults remains a key concern that requires societal attention and action.