Police launch Operation Summer City 2024

Police in Edinburgh have today launched their annual campaign to keep people safe throughout the Edinburgh International Festival 2024.

Operation Summer City launches on Friday, 2 August, to coincide with the beginning of The Festival and will be in effect for the duration of the four-week event, which includes the Fringe, Book Festival, Art Festival and Film Festival.

Edinburgh’s population is expected to double to around one million people throughout August and an enhanced policing resource will be in place to engage with

As part of Operation Summer City, local officers from Edinburgh will be supported by colleagues from neighbouring divisions. National and specialist departments within Police Scotland will also be deployed to provide additional support and assistance.

Throughout Operation Summer City, Edinburgh Division’s social media channels will be used to offer a range of advice and guidance aimed at keeping people safe. The public should follow Police Scotland Edinburgh Division on Facebook and @PSOSEdinburgh on Twitter to view these messages.

Chief Inspector Paul Gillespie discusses the launch of #OpSummerCity and how the public can help us keep them safe over the coming month.

Learn more: https://t.co/CFMzjDl3aV pic.twitter.com/CK8vhGzpny

— Police Scotland Edinburgh (@PSOSEdinburgh) August 2, 2024

Chief Inspector Paul Gillespie from Edinburgh Division said: “Edinburgh during the Festival is one of the most exciting places in the entire world and we want to ensure all of those enjoying the festivities remain safe throughout. 

“Over one million people will be within the Capital throughout August and those visiting the city-centre can expect to see a high-visibility police presence who are happy to speak with the public to address any issues they may have, as well as to respond to any reports of crime arising.

“To enhance our presence and ability to respond to any incidents occurring, we will have our mobile police station set up in Cockburn Street and anyone wishing to speak face-to-face with an officer is welcome to drop-in during the station’s opening hours.

“We want everyone to have an enjoyable, memorable and safe Festival and rest assured, we are doing everything we can to maintain Edinburgh’s status as one of Europe’s safest cities to live, work and visit.”