An investigation is underway after five cars were set alight in Kilmarnock prison's car park last night.
Police this afternoon issued an appeal for information following the dramatic incident at Bowhouse jail.
The blaze happened around 7.25pm with officers and the Scottish Fire and Rescue Service racing to the scene.
No one was injured during the incident but firefighters remained at the prison for almost two hours to ensure the area was safe.
Detectives are treating the blaze as deliberate with enquiries ongoing with surrounding CCTV footage is being scoured for clues.
It's believed a dark-coloured car was seen driving away from the prison after the vehicles were set on fire.
Detective Inspector Ewan Bell said: “I’m sure someone will have seen or noticed this dark-coloured car as it sped off from the prison car park.
“All of the cars involved have been extensively damaged and I am appealing to people who were in the area around the time of the incident to contact us.
“Also, I would appeal to any motorists to check their dash-cam footage as it may have captured an image which could assist us in our enquiries.”
Beefed-up police patrols will be introduced to provide reassurance to the local community and anyone with concerns can approach and speak to these officers.
Anyone with information is asked to call Police Scotland via 101, quoting incident number 3428 of 23 April.
Alternatively, details can be left with Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111 where anonymity can be maintained.
Don't miss the latest Ayrshire headlines – sign up to our free daily newsletter here
