In a statement, Supt Kelly Moore said police were aware of video footage which is circulating on social media in which officers are “seen to be carrying a female from a shop”.

“Police were called by the female’s mother to provide assistance in the Bow Street area of Lisburn at 6.15pm on Sunday 22nd December. The shop was closing its shutters when a female entered the premises.

“Officers attended and after discussions with family and staff members for approximately 20 minutes, a 19-year-old female with complex needs was removed from the shop by a family member, assisted by police.

“This was a very difficult and complex set of circumstances for everyone involved and I have spoken to the family today to discuss their concerns.

“As an organisation we are committed to continuous learning and any feedback will be reviewed and considered.”

She said the Police Ombudsman had been notified “not because there is any suspected criminality or inappropriate behaviour which would justify disciplinary proceedings but owing to the widespread public concern and media attention surrounding the release of a short video clip of a few seconds of this incident”.