News of the World has issued a statement and apology over 'voicemail interception.' (Credit: News of the World)

In a statement, News International, which owns News of the World, announced that it has “decided to approach some civil litigants with an unreserved apology and an admission of liability in cases meeting specific criteria.”

The company expressed “genuine regret” at News of the World’s “voicemail interception” and accepted credit for bringing “evidence” to the police.  ” It was our discovery and voluntary disclosure of this evidence in January that led to the reopening of the police investigation.”

According to the BBC, the News of the World printed a public apology in its print edition and disclosed at least eight people were victims of the phone hacking.  News International reportedly “has put aside £20m for compensation.”

“Here today, we publicly and unreservedly apologise to all such individuals,” News of the World stated.

Two of the eight people identified as phone hacking victims include Sienna Miller, who claimed News of the World exploited her celebrity for stories.  Read more about the accusations of phone hacking against News of the World here.