Appeal after laser shone at helicopter in Glen Etive

Officers are appealing for information after a report of a laser being shone at a helicopter in Glen Etive on Friday, 13 March, 2026.

Around 9.10pm, the laser was shone at HM Coastguard Search and Rescue helicopter, which was assisting Glencoe Mountain Rescue Team in the Glen Etive area.

The light appeared to come from the eastern end of Glencoe in an area near to Kingshouse Hotel. Officers attended, however, they did not trace whoever was responsible and enquiries are ongoing.

Sergeant Brian Heriot said: "Shining a laser light at any aircraft is incredibly dangerous and whoever is responsible has shown a total disregard for safety. Aircraft should always be able to operate safely and without distraction.

"Such incidents are not only extremely dangerous and reckless, they are also criminal acts. If you have any information on this incident, please contact us. If you witness a laser being shone at an aircraft, please contact police immediately."

Anyone with information should contact us through 101, quoting incident number 2087 of Friday, 13 March, 2026. Alternatively, please contact Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111 where information can be given in confidence.