Report Summary
This report provides members of the Policing Performance Committee with a general update on stop and search activity over the period 2024–25.
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Meeting
The publication discussed was referenced in the meeting below
Policing Performance Committee - 16 September 2025
Date : 16 September 2025
Location : online
INTRODUCTION
Stop and search remains a valuable policing tactic that supports the prevention, investigation, and detection of crime, helping to keep people safe. It is one of several tactical options available to officers in carrying out their duties.
Police Scotland recognises that stopping and searching members of the public is a significant intrusion into personal liberty and privacy. As such, the organisation is committed to ensuring that all stop and search activity is carried out lawfully, proportionately, and with full accountability.
As a rights-based organisation, Police Scotland is dedicated to maintaining robust governance and transparency around the use of stop and search. This ensures compliance with the Code of Practice and supports the protection and promotion of human rights.
Officers continue to conduct stop and search in line with Police Scotland’s core values of fairness, integrity, respect, and human rights. Officers are fully accountable for their actions, and any decision to conduct a search must be based on reasonable grounds. These grounds may be informed by various factors, including intelligence, information, personal observations, and interactions with members of the public.
