Sex attacks on Scottish trains hit a ten-year high

SEXUAL assaults reported by women on Scotland’s railways have hit a ten-year high.

British Transport Police said they received 46 reports of women being sexually assaulted while on trains last year – the highest total since 2012.

More than 300 more were threatened, harassed or commonly assaulted – the secondhighest rate after 2019 when 325 reports were made.

Conservative MSP Tess White said: ‘These figures are sickening and highlight that women are being completely let down by the system which isn’t doing enough to protect them on public transport.

‘It’s vital the Scottish Government addresses these horrendous attacks.’

Stephen Elliot, ScotRail Security and Crime Manager, said: ‘We will continue to work closely with the British Transport Police to clamp down on unacceptable behaviour and prosecute offenders.’

Detective Chief Inspector Arlene Wilson said: ‘Tackling sexual harassment and offending is a priority for BTP. We have patrols day and night to reassure passengers, prevent crime and detect offenders.’