Inclusivity and personal safety are the key messages of this year’s Operation Summer City. The initiative, which runs annually, is Edinburgh Division’s campaign to keep the public safe over the duration of the Edinburgh International Festival.
Each year, the Capital’s population doubles, as hundreds of thousands of people from across the world visit to enjoy the various events and experiences that take place within the Festival.
A dedicated policing team will be out on patrol within the city centre over the coming weeks to engage with the public, deter criminal activity and respond to any incidents, which may arise.
In addition, the popular ‘Unofficial Fringe Venue 999’ – a mobile police station, will once again be situated in Princes Street Gardens, with a further unit based in the Hunter Square area. Anyone wishing to obtain crime prevention and personal safety information, or to report a crime, is welcome to drop in.
Launching this year’s campaign at the Radsison Blu Hotel on the High Street, officers wanted to stress that in addition to tackling the usual crime trends such as theft and disorder, particular focus is being given to deterring offences such as hate crime, serious violence and sexual assault.
Chief Inspector Murray Starkey, who is leading on Operation Summer City said: “Every year Edinburgh sees people of all nationalities, cultures and backgrounds visit and we want to make it abundantly clear that everyone is welcome here.
“Over the past few years, media reports have reflected issues of divisiveness, conflict and prejudice on a global scale. I want to reassure anyone coming to the Capital over the summer, and beyond, that hate crime of any sort will not be tolerated.
“My officers will be visible in many parts of the city over the coming weeks to prevent such incidents arising and providing a professional and dedicated response should they occur.
“We chose to launch this year’s Operation Summer City at the Radison Blu, as they are a key hospitality and tourism partner and many of the Festival visitors will be staying here and at other city centre hotels over the summer.
“It is our hope that those coming to Edinburgh for the Festival will enjoy surroundings like this, rather than facing stays in hospital wards or jail cells.
“Taking heed of our advice is a good way to avoid falling victim of crime or getting involved in any activities, which could see you having to deal with us.
“Police will also be available, either on patrol, or within Unofficial Fringe Venue 999, to provide really useful advice on crime prevention and personal safety. All of this information is also available on our website.”
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