Laser pen shone at coastguard helicopter during mountain rescue

A laser pen was shone at a coastguard helicopter during a mountain rescue operation in the Highlands.

Police said the laser was shone at HM Coastguard Search and Rescue helicopter, which was assisting Glencoe Mountain Rescue Team in the Glen Etive area, at around 9.10pm on Friday.

Officers said that the light appeared to come from the eastern end of Glencoem in an area near to Kingshouse Hotel, however, they could not trace who was responsible.

Enquiries remain ongoing.

Sergeant Brian Heriot said: “Shining a laser light at any aircraft is incredibly dangerous and whoever is responsible has shown a total disregard for safety.

“Aircraft should always be able to operate safely and without distraction.

“Such incidents are not only extremely dangerous and reckless, they are also criminal acts. If you have any information on this incident, please contact us. If you witness a laser being shone at an aircraft, please contact police immediately.”

Anyone with information should contact us through 101, quoting incident number 2087 of Friday, 13 March, 2026. Alternatively, please contact Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111 where information can be given in confidence.