Police in Northern Ireland have launched a criminal investigation into allegations of abuse within the Presbyterian Church.
The PSNI also confirmed that it has spoken to An Garda Síochána about the possibility that there could be victims on both sides of the border.
There are over 185,000 members of the Presbyterian Church in 500 congregations on both sides of the border.
Last week the church's moderator, Rev Trevor Gribben, resigned after an internal report found "serious and significant failings" in safeguarding within the church between 2009 and 2022.
The PSNI this afternoon announced that a dedicated investigation team has been set up and appealed to victims to come forward.
It is understood that more than ten alleged victims have already come forward but police believe the final figure could be significantly higher.
"If I can speak directly to victims, I recognise that this may be difficult and you may not be ready, that's okay," said Assistant Chief Constable Davy Beck.
"We want to hear from you. You will be treated with sensitivity, with respect and with professionalism."
He also confirmed that there could be a cross-border element to the investigation.
"There is the potential for this to be a cross-border and cross jurisdictional investigation , so yes I have spoken to my counterpart in An Garda Siochana today and that's to ensure that this is co-ordinated and joined up and we will continue those conversations in the days to come," ACC Beck added.
"They're also aware of our commitment to work cross-border to ensure that any perpetrators are addressed and that we can respond to the needs of victims."
The Presbyterian Church in Ireland said it would be co-operating fully with the PSNI investigation.
A spokesperson said: "Having been informed by the Police Service of Northern Ireland that they have launched a criminal investigation, we welcome this believing it will provide a thorough, trusted and transparent outcome. We will co-operate fully with the investigation.
"We will make available all relevant files, reports and information to assist police with their inquiries.
"As a consequence of the PSNI's announcement today of their investigation we will not be able to make any further comment related to the inquiry or aspects pertaining to it."
