Drug dealing crimes have doubled inside Kilmarnock prison as more cons get caught with illegal substances. 

There were 56 drug supply incidents in Bowhouse during the last financial year, police figures show.

The hike compares to just 21 drug offences committed within the prison during the year before.

It was described as a “huge increase” at an East Ayrshire Council meeting this week.

Ayrshire Divisional Commander Paul Main revealed the statistic at the Council Police and Fire and Rescue Committee.

He said: “There has been a significant spike in the prison data this year.”

The Chief Superintendent said the increase could be down to better technical detection methods and a focus on post entering the jail.

Bowhouse is operated by Serco on behalf of the Scottish Prison Service.

Chief Supterintendent Main added: “It is positive that Serco are finding more items than before.”

Committee chair Councillor Tom Cook commented on the “huge increase in drug supply in the prison.”

He added: “It is concerning that drugs are getting into a prison.”

A report presented to the Committee by Ch Supt Main said police are targeting organised crime gangs selling drugs.

Across the whole of East Ayrshire there were 102 drug supply offences, including those in the jail, during the financial year 2017 to 2018.

The incidents led to offences being reported under the Misuse of Drugs Act. 

The report said: “The number of detections in respect of drug supply offences has risen substantially in comparison to last year. Through the support and engagement with the local community and partners we have continued to target the organised crime groups that operate in our communities with continued success.”