A 33-year-old man has been charged following damage caused to Donald Trump’s Turnberry golf resort earlier this month. The vandalism, which included red paint splattered on a building and pro-Palestinian graffiti on a green, is being investigated by police, with inquiries still ongoing.
Damage at the Prestigious Golf Course
The incident took place on March 8 at the Ayrshire resort. Vandals dug up part of the golf course and painted the words “Gaza is not for sale” on one of the greens. Additionally, red paint was splashed across a building at the luxury property, which is owned by former U.S. President Donald Trump.
The act of vandalism drew attention due to its political messaging. The Trump Organization has not issued an official statement regarding the damage, but sources close to the resort say security measures are being reviewed.
Arrests and Charges
Police initially arrested the 33-year-old suspect on March 12. After further investigation, authorities have now formally charged him in connection with the incident. He is expected to appear before Ayr Sheriff Court on Monday.
The charge comes just a day after two additional suspects—a 75-year-old man and a 66-year-old woman—were arrested in relation to the vandalism. However, they have since been released pending further inquiries. Police Scotland confirmed that the investigation remains active.
Political Context and Public Reaction
The vandalism followed controversial remarks made by Trump regarding Gaza. The former president recently suggested that the region could be transformed into a luxury resort similar to the French Riviera, a statement that sparked global criticism.
• Activists condemned the comments, arguing they disregarded Palestinian rights and the humanitarian crisis in Gaza. • Protests have taken place worldwide, with demonstrations calling for stronger international intervention. • Some supporters of Trump defended his remarks, claiming they were misinterpreted and meant as a long-term vision for economic development.
Ongoing Investigation
Authorities are continuing their inquiries into the incident, with further arrests not ruled out. Police Scotland has urged anyone with additional information to come forward as they work to determine whether more individuals were involved in the act of vandalism.
The case has also reignited debates over security at high-profile locations, with concerns that politically charged incidents could increase as tensions rise globally.
