Police in Edinburgh have launched Operation Winter City, their annual campaign focused on keeping those who live, work and visit the Capital safe throughout the festive period.
The campaign, which runs between Saturday, 20 November, 2021 and Tuesday, 4 January 2022, will see local officers and specialist colleagues undertaking high visibility foot and mobile patrols within the city centre throughout this period.
With the majority of COVID restrictions now eased, it is anticipated that significant numbers of people will take the opportunity to travel into the city to shop, socialise and enjoy the attractions on offer.
This dedicated policing presence will provide public reassurance, and while officers are there to respond to any incidents, they also look forward to engaging with and offering members of the public a range of crime prevention advice.
With the return of Edinburgh’s night-time economy, specialist officers will also be visiting licensed premises to remind staff of their licensing responsibilities, with the intention of preventing and deterring criminal activity taking place within these venues.
As ever, social media will play a vital role in delivering festive safety information and should you wish to receive key messaging, please follow us on Twitter @EdinburghPolice or ‘like’ the Edinburgh Police Division Facebook page.
Superintendent Sam Ainslie, Operation Winter City’s Lead Officer, said: “Last year’s festive period proved challenging for many of us, however, with the majority of the COVID restrictions now removed, we look forward to welcoming people back into Edinburgh to enjoy all that the city has to offer.
“No different to any other time of the year, we remain focused on ensuring that everyone remains safe, and whether you have travelled in to shop, enjoy the various attractions or sample the night time economy, you will undoubtedly see our dedicated resources throughout the city centre over the coming weeks.
“In addition to offering reassurance to the public and respond to any incidents, my officers will also be offering a range of crime prevention advice, including how best to protect yourself, your home and your belongings, and I would encourage you to speak with them.
“If you plan on visiting the city centre over this period, I would advise you to plan your journey in advance, including your journey home and remember to keep hold of your belongings and purchases.
“If you are here to enjoy the night time economy, then please drink responsibly and behave considerately towards others, as highlighted officers will be providing a highly visible presence throughout the city centre area.
“But above all, Edinburgh Division wishes you and your loved ones a safe festive period.
“We will be utilising our social media channels to share crime prevention advice and broader messaging over the course of Operation Winter City, so please follow our Facebook and Twitter pages to receive this information, or, if you would prefer to view ahead of time, please visit www.scotland.police.uk/advice-and-information.”
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