DRIVERS and pedestrians were stopped by police in Stevenston last night as cops continue their investigation into a serious assault on a female officer.
The 30-year-old was reportedly stabbed in the incident at a property in Arthur Street last week.
Officers conducted a 'stop and interview' operation in Arthur Street from 6pm until 9pm on Tuesday.
They spoke to more than 30 members of the public and motorists in an attempt to find out any additional information which could assist them in the investigation.
The incident happened while the officer was on duty, responding to a report of a break-in shortly after 2am on Wednesday, October 18.
Two other officers were at the scene alongside the 30-year-old woman, who was the victim of the attack as she carried out enquiries.
The officer was taken to the Queen Elizabeth University Hospital in Glasgow for treatment. She has since been released
The attack is now being investigated by Police Scotland's major crimes team, and patrols in the Stevenston area have been stepped up.
Detective Inspector Jonny MacKinnon, from Police Scotland’s Major Investigation Team, said: “We have had an encouraging response from those we spoke to and I would like to thank everyone for their support and co-operation. The information we have gathered is being assessed by officers and will be followed up as required
“To seriously harm an officer who was simply doing her job and responding to a report of a crime in the community is deplorable and I would continue to urge anyone with information about what happened, who is yet to speak to us, to come forward.
"Any small piece of information could prove crucial in leading us to identify whoever is responsible."
Chief Inspector Fraser Normansell, area commander for North Ayrshire, said: "Our officers show their commitment to serving and protecting the public every day with no hesitation. It is vitally important that the local community comes forward with any information they have about this appalling attack. We will continue to have additional police patrols in the area to provide reassurance.”
Detectives have set up an online portal to encourage members of the public to submit information. This can be accessed at https://mipp.police.uk/operation/SCOT23S35-PO1
Anyone with information is asked to contact Police Scotland via 101, quoting incident number 0240 of 18 October, 2023, or Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111 where details can be given anonymously.
Tuesday night's operation came after two men appeared in court charged with possession of offensive weapons in Arthur Street.
As reported previously by the Herald, Andrew Morgan, 43, and 55-year-old Thomas McKenzie made no plea or declaration and were released on bail following a private hearing at Kilmarnock Sheriff Court on Monday.
The charges laid against the pair are not believed to be in connection with the October 18 incident.
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