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The National (Scotland)
The National (Scotland)
National
Laura Pollock

Locals 'extremely disturbed' after officers taser boy, 11, in Ayr

AN SNP MSP says people have been "extremely disturbed" after an 11-year-old boy was tasered by police in her constituency.

Elena Whitham MSP welcomed an independent review and scrutiny after a police watchdog investigation was launched.

It is understood police were called to the Craig Tara Caravan Park near Ayr around 11.15pm on Wednesday, March 22 after a disturbance was reported.

The moment officers tasered the boy, who was holding a knife, was captured on video.

The Carrick, Cumnnock and Doon Valley representative said: “I fully appreciate that people will have found the news and footage of this incident extremely disturbing, and whilst understanding that Police Scotland have a duty of care to keep the public safe - and not knowing the specific details of this case, I am reassured that they have reported this matter to the Police Investigations and Review Commissioner where it will receive due independent review and scrutiny."

The National Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Children (NSPCC) have called for Police Scotland to review their use of tasers on those under-18.

Whitham has sided with the NSPCC and has said she will write to colleague Angela Constance, the cabinet secretary for justice and home affairs over the issue.

Police Scotland have confirmed the case will be sent to the Police Investigations and Review Commissioner.

A spokesperson for Police Scotland said: “The incident was resolved with no serious injuries. It was contained and there was no risk to the wider public.

"A taser was discharged during this incident. As part of standard procedure, the circumstances of the incident were referred to the Police Investigations and Review Commissioner."

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