Homicides remain at lowest level
Homicides in Scotland remain at the lowest level since modern crime recording began and the 48 recorded during 2022-23 was the lowest number in any year.
The figures are highlighted in Police Scotland’s latest Policing Performance report, which also outlines an exceptional and demanding period for policing - reflecting the changing needs of the communities.
Deputy Chief Constable Fiona Taylor QPM said:
“The performance report underlines that Scotland is a safe place to live and work and, when criticality does arise, Police Scotland responds with high levels of operational competence.
“Since the service was formed ten years ago, Police Scotland’s extremely high detection rate continues. Only one homicide is undetected and that remains under investigation.
“Each one is an individual tragedy with unique circumstances and investigative challenges. Securing justice for families and loved ones is a core duty for Police Scotland and important for police legitimacy.”
The Q4 Performance Report also details that during 2022-23 there has been a reduction in the number of assaults on Police Scotland officers and staff – down 438 (6.2%) to 6,657. The figure is also down 2.1% on the five year mean.
DCC Taylor added:
“I welcome the reduction in assaults on our officers and staff which is the lowest number since 2018-19. We will continue to drive work as part of the Your Safety Matters programme, to reduce the impact violence and abuse has on our officers and staff.
The Banking Protocol, which equips bank staff with the skills to spot the signs of a customer who may have fallen victim to a scam or who may be about to, also features in the report. It underlines the value of working in partnership with the banking sector to raise the awareness of the protocol and instigate it when necessary.
The report notes that last year the protocol thwarted £3.5 million of frauds after 1,200 incidents were reported. Between January and March this year the 294 reported incidents saw £750,000 of frauds being prevented.
Our work with Scotland’s Serious Organised Crime Taskforce to disrupt the activities of organised crime groups is highlighted, with a number of significant seizures of illegal drugs and the arrests of those responsible is detailed. It is also reported that over the past year a number of known serious organised crime groups have seen their activities disrupted significantly – with 37 of 97 (38%) groups being dismantled.
Deputy Chief Constable Taylor said:
“These seizures and the arrest of those involved in organised criminality underline the important role we play in reducing the harm of drugs on individuals and our communities.”
