Back to today’s briefing

Story perspectives

Police Scotland's Youth Searches Surge Amid Violence Concerns

12/8/2025

50 5 Full Breakdown

Summary

Story summary

In 2024, Police Scotland conducted about 6,500 stop-and-searches on young people, up 38% from 2023.
The rise followed concerns about youth violence and knife crime, with 231 weapons recovered in 2024.
Despite a general decrease in youth violence, high-profile incidents have raised alarms.
Critics, including Scotland's children's commissioner, warn the searches risk trauma to youths and note eight-year-olds may be drawn to violence via social media.

1 of 1

Story summary

In 2024, Police Scotland conducted about 6,500 stop-and-searches on young people, up 38% from 2023.
The rise followed concerns about youth violence and knife crime, with 231 weapons recovered in 2024.
Despite a general decrease in youth violence, high-profile incidents have raised alarms.
Critics, including Scotland's children's commissioner, warn the searches risk trauma to youths and note eight-year-olds may be drawn to violence via social media.