'Alarming' number of rail crimes committed in Fife during pandemic

Concerns have been voiced over the amount of rail crimes committed during the lockdown.
Dozens of incidents have occurred on trains and train stations in Fife.Dozens of incidents have occurred on trains and train stations in Fife.
Dozens of incidents have occurred on trains and train stations in Fife.

Fife MSPs Murdo Fraser and Liz Smith have expressed their concerns at the “alarming” number of crimes on trains or rail lines in Fife, which amounted to 175 in nine months during the pandemic.

The politicians were reacting to the shocking statistics that show an array of crimes committed across the length and breadth of the region, including trespass, assault of an emergency worker, theft, vandalism, common assault, having possession of a bladed object and stone throwing.

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The information includes the crimes on trains or rail lines in Fife from March 23 to December 22, last year.

Commenting, Mr Fraser said: “The number of crimes committed on trains or rail lines in Fife during this period is very concerning indeed, particularly as they took place during the pandemic when rail services have been reduced and we have been in lockdown for part of that period.

“It is extremely worrying to know that many people were caught trespassing on rail lines in Fife. This is highly dangerous and completely irresponsible – it shows a complete disregard for someone’s own safety along with that of rail staff.”

Ms Smith added: “It is alarming to read of the amount of crimes committed through this data. It appears that those involved had nothing better to do during the pandemic than trespass on rail lines, assault rail staff and get involved in vandalism.

“The total number of rail crimes committed in Fife in just eight months is a lot in normal times, but it is difficult to comprehend this figure during the pandemic.”

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