Two men assaulted and robbed in Leith

PolicePolice are appealing for witnesses after two men were assaulted and robbed in Leith on Thursday evening. The incident happened at around 9.40pm in Breadalbane Street.

A 21-year-old and 19-year-old were sitting in a car waiting for a friend when three men approached the vehicle. Two of the suspects produced knives and threatened the pair, while the third suspect, who was in possession of a metal pole, searched the car for valuables.

Both victims were struck on the head with the pole during the robbery before the three men responsible made off. Fortunately neither required medical attention.

Police are urging anyone who can assist with their enquiries to come forward.

The suspects are all described as being white, 25-30-years-old, between 5ft 8ins and 5ft 9ins tall with slim builds and wearing dark hooded tops and dark trousers.

Detective Constable Graham McIlwraith said: “The victims were taken by surprise when the suspects approached their car and produced weapons before robbing them of their personal possessions. Thankfully, though, neither of them were injured and we are now conducting local enquiries to trace the men responsible.

“Anyone who was in or around Breadalbane Street on Thursday evening and remembers seeing anything suspicious is asked to contact police immediately. We would also request that anyone who recognises the description of the suspects, or who has any further information relevant to this investigation, gets in touch as soon as possible.”

Those with information can contact Police Scotland on 101 or alternatively, the charity Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.

Police seek witnesses to Leith Links attack

police (4)Police in Edinburgh are appealing for witnesses following a serious sexual assault in Leith Links in the early hours of Thursday morning.

The incident happened at 1am, when a 28-year-old woman was approached by a man who produced a knife before subjecting her to the attack. The man then made off and the victim contacted police.

The suspect is described as being of Pakistani/South Asian appearance and wearing a grey hooded top and black tracksuit bottoms. Anyone who can assist with this ongoing enquiry is asked to come forward.

Detective Inspector Keith Fairbairn said: “This was a horrendous attack, which left the victim deeply distressed and she is now being supported by Police Scotland and other relevant partner agencies.

“The incident was carried out in a public area and we are keen to hear from anyone who was in or around Leith Links in the early hours of Thursday morning and saw anything suspicious.

“Similarly, anyone who recognises the description of the suspect, or who has any further information that can help us trace the man responsible is also asked to contact police immediately.”

Chief Inspector Sara Buchanan said: “We understand that this incident may have an impact on the local community and so high-visibility patrols are currently being deployed within the Leith Links to engage with members of the public and offer reassurance.

“In addition officers will be liaising with relevant partner agencies to assist anyone affected by this attack.

“I would urge anyone who wishes to speak with an officer in relation to this incident to approach one of the officers at the scene, contact 101 or make an anonymous report via the charity Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.”

Leith Links sex attack: man charged

police (4)

A 24-year-old man has been charged with rape following a serious sexual assault on Leith Links in the early hours of Thursday morning.

The incident happened at 1am, when a 28-year-old woman was approached by a man who produced a knife before subjecting her to the attack. The man then made off and the victim contacted police.

Detective Inspector Keith Fairbairn said: “This was a horrendous attack, which left the victim deeply distressed and she is now being supported by Police Scotland and other relevant partner agencies.

“The incident was carried out in a public area and we are keen to hear from anyone who was in or around Leith Links in the early hours of Thursday morning and saw anything suspicious.

“Similarly, anyone who recognises the description of the suspect, or who has any further information that can help us trace the man responsible is also asked to contact police immediately.”

Chief Inspector Sara Buchanan said: “We understand that this incident may have an impact on the local community and so high-visibility patrols are currently being deployed within the Leith Links to engage with members of the public and offer reassurance.

“In addition officers will be liaising with relevant partner agencies to assist anyone affected by this attack.

“I would urge anyone who wishes to speak with an officer in relation to this incident to approach one of the officers at the scene, contact 101 or make an anonymous report via the charity Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.”