Seventh person arrested after riot police 'attacked' during village disorder

A seventh arrest has been made after disorder in an East Ayrshire village saw a “hostile” crowd clash with riot police.

A 34-year-old man has been arrested and charged and is due to appear at Ayr Sheriff Court on Wednesday.

It comes after a 13-year-old boy and five adults were over the disturbances at the weekend in which riot police were struck with projectiles in Auchinleck, between Friday, November 24, and Monday, November 27.

During one of the incidents, an officer was allegedly injured by a brick and was taken to hospital for treatment before being released.

Videos show police with helmets and riot shields having fireworks thrown at them.

Three men, aged 22, 28, 39 and two women, aged 29 and 36, as well as the 13-year-old boy, were arrested and charged.

The force condemned those involved and said the attacks were “completely unacceptable”.

Police are continuing to appeal for information regarding the incidents.

Detective inspector Ewan Bell, who is leading the investigation, said: “We are appealing for information into this disorder as we make further arrests.

“We believe this disorder to be planned and targeted. Unfortunately, during the incidents, some of those gathered became extremely hostile towards police.

“An officer was injured by a brick and he had to be taken to hospital for treatment before being released. For them to be attacked while doing their jobs is completely unacceptable and will not be tolerated.

“We have stepped up patrols in the area and anyone with concerns should speak to officers. We’re committed to identifying those responsible and taking further action.

“Anyone who thinks they may have information, CCTV or dashcam footage which could assist us in our investigation is urged to come forward.”

Temporary chief superintendent Raymond Higgins said: “This type of disorder causes fear and alarm to residents and I would like to reassure the local community that enquiries into what happened are ongoing.

“We would ask that you do not speculate on what is going on here and allow our officers to carry out their enquiries.

“The community of Auchinleck deserve to live in peace and free from this type of crime.”

Anyone with information is urged to contact Police Scotland on 101 quoting 2137 of November 25, 2023.

Alternatively, information can be given anonymously to Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.