Of the 187 attacks recorded on police in Dumfries and Galloway in 2020-21, the force says 24 of them were in a covid related context.
The figures were released as part of a national report, which showed a 6.3 per cent increase in assaults, up to 6942 across Scotland.
Commenting, Deputy Chief Constable Fiona Taylor said: “Officers and staff stepped-forward to help combat the spread of the virus, conducting in excess of 120,000 interactions with members of the public to explain rapidly changing guidance, encourage everyone to do the right thing and enforce the law where required.
“I am grateful to the vast majority of people who responded with remarkable co-operation and support for their police service.
“Officers and staff work with dedication and a commitment to helping people and violence and abuse against them is utterly deplorable and unacceptable. It is not simply part of the job and will not be tolerated.”
Meanwhile, armed police officers will start to be equipped with body worn video cameras this year, following a national consultation.
