Two people arrested over Trump Turnberry vandalism

A man and woman have been arrested over vandalism they caused to the golf courses and clubhouse at Trump Turnberry earlier this month.

In the early hours of Saturday, March 8, the South Ayrshire resort – owned by US President Donald Trump – was doused in red paint.

Meanwhile, greens were dug up and another was painted with the words “Gaza is not for sale” in three-metre-high white lettering.

Following enquiries in Oban yesterday, Police Scotland confirmed that a 75-year-old man and a 66-year-old woman were arrested but have been released.

A 33-year-old man was also arrested over the incident but was later released on March 12.

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A spokesperson said: “Officers investigating damage to a golf course and a hotel on Maidens Road, Turnberry, have arrested two people in connection with the incident.

“A 75-year-old man and a 66-year-old woman were arrested following enquiries in Oban on Wednesday, March 26, 2025. Both have since been released pending further enquiries.

“The investigation into the incident remains ongoing.”

It came after Trump, who purchased the hotel and golf courses from Leisurecorp in 2014 for $60 million, proposed for the United States to take ownership of the Gaza Strip.

In a statement, the group behind the incident – called Palestine Action – said it was “a direct response to the US administration’s stated intent to ethnically cleanse Gaza.”

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A spokesperson added: “Palestine Action rejects Donald Trump’s treatment of Gaza as though it were his property to dispose of as he likes.

“To make that clear, we have shown him that his own property is not safe from acts of resistance. We will continue to take action against US-Israeli colonialism in the Palestinian homeland.”

Talking to the BBC, a Turnberry spokesperson insisted: “This was a childish, criminal act but the incredible team at Trump Turnberry will ensure it does not impact business.

“Turnberry is a national treasure and will continue to be the number one beacon of luxury and excellence in the world of golf.”

While Turnberry hasn’t been officially struck from the Open rota, the venue in Girvan hasn’t hosted the Claret Jug since 2009.

John Turnbull A graduate of the University of Stirling, John joined the bunkered team in 2023 as a Content Producer, with a responsibility for covering all breaking news, tour news, grassroots content and much more besides. A keen golfer, he plays the majority of his golf at Falkirk Tryst Golf Club. Top of his 'bucket list' is a round of Pebble Beach... ideally in the company of Gareth Bale.