The two agencies are working together in “Operation Jarra” to crack down on those accessing indecent images of children on the Internet.

Detective Chief Superintendent George Clarke, head of the PSNI’s Public Protection Branch, said the joint operation “has helped ensure those who pose a threat to children are apprehended and brought before the courts”.

Four people have been charged and brought to court since the operation began, while 11 others have been released on bail pending further investigation.

Steps were also taken to “safeguard and protect” 32 children by issuing care orders.

Operation Jarra is one of the first major inter-agency operations since the NCA became fully operational in Northern Ireland in May.

Mr Clarke said: “The PSNI and our colleagues in NCA have been working hard together, using a range of investigative techniques to ensure all opportunities are maximised to protect children from harm online and offline and bring offenders to justice and we will continue to do so.”

Dr Zoe Hilton, head of child protection for NCA/CEOP (Child Exploitation and Online Protection Centre), added: “Be in no doubt that we can police the internet. It is not a safe haven for accessing indecent images of children, and if you do it you should expect to come to our attention.”