VIOLENT crime in Renfrewshire increased last month, following the lifting of lockdown restrictions. 

Figures compiled by Police Scotland and released by the Scottish Government show the number of murder bids rose by 80%, from eight to 15, compared to the same 31-day period last year.

Assaults were up from 161 to 193 and there was also a doubling in the number of people carrying offensive weapons – up by 86% to 41.

However, Chief Superintendent Alan Murray, Divisional Commander for Renfrewshire and Inverclyde, moved quickly to reassure residents in towns like Johnstone and Renfrew about their safety.

He told The Gazette: “I want to make it clear that Renfrewshire remains a safe place to live, work and visit. Crime statistics are useful in assisting in identifying areas where additional policing resources are required. However, these statistics cover a relatively short period of time and care must be taken to avoid making assumptions about trends in crime.”

Figures for August also show the overall number of crimes investigated by police in Renfrewshire was up by 8% on 2019, from 618 to 667.

Complaints of vandalism rose from 113 to 124, while a purge on drink and drug-driving saw the number of cases almost double, from 22 to 41, and the number of break-ins to homes rose from 25 to 28.

However, there was a 62% drop in reports of rape and attempted rape.

Mr Murray added: “I can confirm the division has made significant strides in tackling violent crime and removing those responsible for crimes of violence from our communities.

“Preventing such offences remains one of my top priorities and we work with a range of partners to divert and deter individuals from becoming involved in incidents of violence.

“We continue to conduct targeted and intelligence-led operations to recover weapons and other illicit items from those intent on causing harm and our proactive approach has paid dividends in ensuring the number of weapons seized has increased, along with the number of people reported for weapons offences.”

Separate figures released by the Scottish Government for the five-month period from April to August show a 2% rise in crimes in Renfrewshire to 3,331.

The biggest single increase involved theft from cars, which jumped from 18 to 62 cases – a rise of almost 250%.

There was also a rise in the number of Renfrewshire people falling victim to fraud, from 123 to 233 cases.

Mr Murray continued: “If you wish to report ongoing criminal activity in your area, contact us immediately so we can respond and bring offenders to justice.”