Robbery crimes across North Ayrshire have increased slightly during the second quarter and figures are slightly up on last year but well below the five-year average.
The figures for April 1 to September 30 are in keeping with those experiences in previous years with 2023-24 much lower than the previous four years.
The detection rate is currently 81.3 per cent, which is above last year and the five-year average.
There have been three crimes on the High Street in Irvine, two of which occurred at a bus stop. Seven of the crimes have taken place within the home, with a physical assault being most commonly used against the victim.
Cash remains the most commonly acquired item and the victim knew the offender, in some capacity, in at least 63 per cent of robberies so far this year. Three of the victims have been aged 70 or above.
During the reporting period there were seven crimes.
Irvine Town Centre has featured as a repeat locus and as such a specific action plan to target offending behaviour is ongoing, utilising both high visibility and plain clothed officers.
Addiction is a significant feature in all reported crimes with the offender either under the influence or committing these crimes to fund their addiction.
At the time of submission five of these crimes have been detected with the remaining two as live investigations. Every crime of robbery is reviewed and assessed by the Criminal Investigation department who work closely with Locality and Priority Policing teams to bring the offenders to justice quickly.
Support is provided to victims by investigating officers with appropriate referrals to support agencies being made.
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