Newly published figures from the Scottish Government show a substantial rise in weapons offences in East Ayrshire in 2025/26, prompting calls from politicians and reassurance from police about steps being taken locally.
Statistics show decade highs
The data reveals that recorded weapons offences across the county rose by 46% over the past year and by more than 87% over the last decade. Officers logged 143 incidents of possession of weapons not used during the 2025/26 reporting period — the highest level in ten years — and 142 incidents where a weapon was recorded as having been used by an alleged offender. That gives a combined total of 285 weapons possession offences in 2025/26, up from 195 the previous year.
Police and local representatives respond
Superintendent Jim McMillan acknowledged concerns while stressing the force's priorities and tactics.
"We understand any rise in crime figures can be of concern ... detection and prevention of violent crime and its associated criminality is a local policing priority for East Ayrshire."
He underlined a multi-agency approach to tackling violent crime and said intelligence-led stop and search remains an important tactic to remove weapons and prevent serious violence. The superintendent also reiterated a clear public message against carrying weapons.
Local MPs have urged action in response to the numbers. The report notes comment from Elaine Stewart, MP for Ayr, Carrick and Cumnock, reflecting wider political concern about the trend.
What the numbers mean for local communities
Although overall recorded crime in East Ayrshire has fallen over the last decade, the rise in weapons offences represents a specific and worrying trend with potential implications for public safety, policing resources and community confidence. The increase in incidents where weapons were carried but not used — now a ten-year high — suggests a growing prevalence of weapon carriage in the community.
- Total weapons possession offences (2025/26): 285
- Possession without use: 143 (highest in a decade)
- Possession with use: 142 (up over 50% on prior year)
| Measure | 2025/26 | Change on previous year |
|---|---|---|
| Possession (not used) | 143 | Up more than a third |
| Possession (used) | 142 | Up over 50% |
| Total weapons offences | 285 | Up from 195 |
The figures pose questions for partners involved in crime prevention, youth services, community safety and health — all of which police say form part of a coordinated response. Superintendent McMillan made clear that policing alone cannot stop violent crime and that the force works alongside other agencies to investigate criminality when it is identified.
For residents, the statistics underline the importance of reporting suspicious behaviour and cooperating with local initiatives aimed at reducing violence and removing weapons from the community. East Ayrshire Council, health and education partners, and the police will be among those expected to explain the practical steps they plan to take in response to the trend.
Further comment from elected representatives and details of any additional local measures were being sought at the time of publication.
