Seven police officers investigated over their handling of an inquiry into leaks in the Emma Caldwell murder case have been cleared.

The officers obtained communications data without permission in an attempt to identify a Sunday Mail reporter's anonymous source.

However, an investigation has now ruled that there was no misconduct and the officers have returned to regular duties.

The inquiry was carried out by the Police Service of Northern Ireland (PSNI) at Police Scotland's request.

Police Scotland deputy chief constable Rose Fitzpatrick said: "I have reviewed the findings of the enquiry and have determined that there was no misconduct on the part of any of the officers who were investigated."

None of the seven officers investigated by the PSNI had any direct involvement in the investigation into Emma Caldwell's death.

They were all members of Police Scotland's Counter Corruption Unit (CCU) and now work elsewhere in the force.

The PSNI was appointed following a breach of communications data protocols identified by the Interception of Communications Commissioner's Office (IOCCO).

Ms Fitzpatrick added: "We accepted that the service did not adhere to new guidelines covering access to communications data and that standards fell below those required.

"Following the IOCCO ruling, Police Scotland asked Durham Constabulary to investigate complaints from four people who were affected by that failure and I subsequently apologised to each of them wholeheartedly and unreservedly for what had happened and for the impact on them personally.

"It is important to recognise that since this happened in 2015, a significant amount of work has already taken place in Police Scotland to ensure such failings are not repeated."

Emma Caldwell, 27, was found dead in woods near Roberton, South Lanarkshire, in 2005.