Lockdown cop attacks ‘abhorrent’

POLICE Scotland officers and staff were subjected to almost 90 coronavirusrelated attacks in the first few weeks of lockdown.

The Scottish Tories, who obtained the data, said it was “abhorrent” key workers had suffered the assaults.

The force revealed its officers and other staff members were subjected to 265 assaults in the period March 24 to April 30. These included 89 attacks classed as Covid-related, where officers were, for example, coughed or spat on.

MSP Liam Kerr, Tory justice spokesman, said: “These assaults on police officers are completely unacceptable and the SNP Government must condemn them in the strongest possible terms.”

Justice Secretary Humza Yousaf said: “No one should be the victim of abuse or violence while at work.

“Assaults on police officers are despicable and courts have extensive powers to deal robustly with perpetrators. We continue to encourage all organisations to support staff who experience violence in the workplace.”