Officer attacked with firework amid 'large scale disorder' in Auchinleck
Police with riot shields were seen confronting a crowd in the East Ayrshire Village on Saturday night
An investigation has been launched into “large scale disorder” in an East Ayrshire village that saw riot police deployed and an officer “struck with a firework”.
Police were called out to Auchinleck on Saturday night following reports of an incident in Old Avenue.
Officers with riot shields confront large crowd
Various posts on social media showed officers equipped with riot shields confronting a large crowd.
Some members of the crowd became hostile towards officers, with one officer being struck by a firework.
Detective inspector Louise White of Police Scotland's Ayrshire division, said: "An investigation is under way following an incident of large-scale disorder in Auchinleck on Saturday November 25.
"Officers were called to reports of a crowd gathered in Old Avenue.
"The crowd moved to other addresses in the area and public order officers attended to assist when the crowd refused to disperse when requested.
Police met with 'extreme' hostility
"Unfortunately during the incident some of those gathered became extremely hostile towards the police and one officer was struck by a firework and taken to hospital for treatment.
"Police Officers have a duty to ensure the safety of everyone involved such incidents but this kind of behaviour is completely unacceptable."
She added: "Although the crowd later dispersed our investigation is ongoing to trace those responsible and ensure they are dealt with appropriately.
"This will include reviewing any available video footage".
Local councillors condemn violence
A Facebook post from local councillors Claire Leitch and William Lennox said: “We were shocked by the scenes in Auchinleck last night and strongly condemn any violence, particularly towards the emergency services carrying out their job.
Given the lack of details around the situation and the potential for a criminal investigation, it would be inappropriate to comment further.
The community does not deserve the displays of violence and disorder that we saw last night and we will provide support to residents in any way we can.”
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