Police appeal after attempted robbery in Leith Links

Police are appealing to two cyclists who witnessed an attempted robbery in the Leith Links area around 10.45pm on Monday, 25 November, 2019.

The cyclists – one man, one woman – were travelling from the Easter Road end of Leith Links in the direction of Constitution Street when a man attempted to steal a woman’s handbag following what appeared to be a disagreement.

The victim shouted for help, at which point the male suspect dropped the handbag and ran off in the direction of Queen Charlotte Street. The two cyclists stopped to help the victim ensuring she was safe and well.

The male suspect is described as white, in his mid-30s, between 5 ft 11 ins and 6 ft 2 ins, and of average build. He was wearing a dark jacket and jeans with a green rucksack.

Detective Constable Paul Henderson said: “The female victim was uninjured but was understandably left shaken. Enquiries are ongoing into the isolated incident and I am particularly keen to speak to the two cyclists who witnessed it and stopped to help the victim at the time.

“I would ask them, or anyone who may have seen a man fitting this description in the area, to contact police on 101, quoting reference number 1450 of 28 November. Alternatively, information can be provided to independent charity Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.”