Stevenston: Police remain at scene after serious assault of officer

The 30-year-old officer was on duty at the time of the attack, responding to a routine call in the town's Arthur Street on Wednesday, October 18.

Two other officers also responded to a reported break-in on the street at around 2.05am.

The female officer was assaulted while carrying out enquiries at the scene, in what Ayrshire's most senior police officer branded a "despicable attack".

Following the attack, the officer was taken to the Queen Elizabeth University Hospital in Glasgow for treatment where her condition is described as stable.

Ever since the incident, officers have remained at the scene.

Personnel wearing protective suits were seen in the street later that day.

Eyewitnesses then described how officers began combing the area around Arthur Street, and lifting drains, suggesting they were searching for something.

In the days that have followed, further teams have been sent to the Three Towns, while patrols have increased considerably.

Today, Friday October 20, Police Scotland's major crimes team confirmed their involvement in the case - and the Herald visited the scene to see how the enquiries are developing.

Police vehicles remain stationed at a number of locations around Arthur Street.

The street itself, along with adjacent Burnbank Street, remain closed off to everyone other than residents.

Particular attention appears to be being paid towards the park behind Arthur Street, leading towards Stevenston Cemetery.

Police vehicles could be seen at each entrance to the park, with the entrances also taped off to prevent public access.

While a team of nearly a dozen officers in black uniforms arrived at the scene late this morning, though were later not present on the street itself.

Chief Inspector Fraser Normansell, area commander for North Ayrshire, said: “Assault is not simply part of the job for police officers, it’s not acceptable and it will not be tolerated.

"This officer was carrying out her role, serving local communities and protecting the public, when the incident happened.

“I would like to reassure the community that local officers are working with the Major Investigation Team to trace whoever is responsible for this deplorable act. 

“We have additional police patrols in the area and members of the public are encouraged to speak to a police officer if they have any concerns or information that could assist the investigation.”

The public have also been asked to help assist in this extensive investigation.

Detective Inspector Jonny MacKinnon, of Police Scotland’s major investigations team, added: “We are continuing to carry out extensive enquiries following this despicable attack on an on-duty officer. 

“I am appealing to anyone who was in the area around the time of the incident and may have witnessed what happened to get in touch.

“Also, if anyone saw someone in the area acting suspiciously then please contact officers.

"Any information, no matter how insignificant it may seem, could help our investigation."

Anyone with information should contact Police Scotland via 101, quoting incident number 0240 of 18 October, 2023, or please call Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111 where information can be given anonymously.

Police Scotland have also set up a link to their online portal that gives members of the public access to a form to send information directly to the major investigation team.

This can be found at https://mipp.police.uk/operation/SCOT23S35-PO1.