Tag: Crime

Two more arrests in connection with violent incidents in the East and West

Officers investigating the violent incidents in the East and West of the country have made two further arrests, bringing the total to 44.

Following the recovery of a firearm in the Roseburn Path area of Edinburgh on Wednesday, 11 June, 2025, a 25-year-old man was subsequently arrested and charged in connection and was due to appear at Edinburgh Sheriff Court today, Friday, 13 June.

Officers also executed warrants this morning at addresses in South Queensferry and Edinburgh.

A 22-year-old man was arrested and charged in connection with fire-raising of a vehicle on Peacocktail Close in Edinburgh on Friday, 16 May. He is due to appear at Edinburgh Sheriff Court on Monday, 16 June.

A 21-year-old man has also been reported to the Procurator Fiscal in connection with wilful fire-raisings at two properties in Glasgow and one in Shotts in April.

A dedicated team of officers from our Specialist Crime Division, with support from local divisions across the country, continue to carry out extensive enquiries to gather vital evidence and reassure the public with intelligence-led patrols.

Detective Chief Superintendent Dave Ferry said: “Our continued activity and arrests show our commitment to targeting organised crime and bringing those responsible to justice.

“We continue to investigate and follow a number of positive lines of enquiry. The support and response from the public has been excellent, and I am grateful for the assistance given to us and that continued support from local communities is crucial as we progress our enquiries.

“If you know anything that could assist our ongoing investigation, please do the right thing and speak to us.”

Anyone with information is asked to contact Police Scotland via 101 quoting incident number 0562 of Friday, 21 March, 2025. Alternatively, you can call Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111 where information can be given anonymously.

Firearm recovered on Roseburn Path

Investigation into violent crime incidents continues

POLICE officers carrying out enquiries in the Roseburn Path area of Edinburgh have recovered a firearm.

The weapon was found around 11am yesterday – Wednesday, 11 June – as part of Operation Portaledge, the ongoing investigation into violent incidents in the East and West of the country.

Detective Chief Superintendent David Ferry, Specialist Crime Division, said: “A number of weapons have now been recovered as part of this operation.

“I hope this latest find helps to reassure the community of our continued resolve to target organised crime.

“Extensive enquiries are ongoing and I urge anyone who knows something that could assist with our investigation to please contact to us.

“Anyone with information relating to these incidents should speak to Police Scotland on 101 or make a call anonymously to Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.”

Violent crime in Scotland DOWN by 27% since 2008

People ‘feel safer in their communities’

Total levels of property and violent crime have fallen by more than a third since 2008-09, according to the latest Scottish Crime and Justice Survey (SCJS). 

The 2023-24 official statistics also show that people feel safer in their communities. 

The survey of almost 5,000 people across Scotland estimates that since 2008-09: 

  • the volume of property and violent crime, including incidents not reported to police, is 37% lower 
  • violent crime is down 27% 
  • property crime is down 41% 
  • the proportion of people who feel safe walking alone in their local area after dark has increased to three-quarters (75%) from two-thirds (66%) 

Those who took part in the survey were asked about their experiences of violent crime and property crime and, for the first time, their experience of fraud and computer misuse. The volume of property and violent crime combined has increased since 2021-22 but remains at similar levels to the pre-pandemic position in 2019-20 and below that in 2008-09. 

The survey also asked people about their perceptions of crime, policing and the justice system. Most adults expressed confidence in their local police’s ability to deal with incidents as they occur and to solve crimes. 

Justice Secretary Angela Constance said: “This flagship national survey indicates that property crime and violent crime is more than a third (37%) lower than 2008-09 and that people feel safer in their local communities.

“These statistics are consistent with other official figures which show that police recorded crime is at one of the lowest levels since 1974. We are making record investments in policing and across the justice system to build on this progress.  

“Crime continues to be down significantly over the long term, though the survey does highlight areas of concern and the need for continued action from governments and justice partners. While the levels of crime experienced remain similar to the pre-pandemic position in 2019-20, I am keen to understand what has contributed to the rises in crime identified since the 2021-22 survey. 

“I am also concerned about levels of fraud and computer misuse, including bank and credit card fraud, which can cause significant harm to individuals and businesses.  A range of action will continue to enhance Police Scotland’s response to fraud, to raise awareness among the public of the potential risks and to help protect individuals and organisations from cyber criminals.

“Overall, and importantly, this survey shows most people do not experience any crime and only a very small proportion are affected by violent crime, but I have been consistently clear that any incidence of violence is one too many. That is why we are taking forward a wide range of actions to prevent, reduce and tackle violence, funded with more than £6 million invested over the past three years on top of our record funding for police.  

“This week, I will also chair, with the First Minister, a cross-party summit with MSPs, youth workers and partners to consider what more can be done to address and prevent violence among young people.” 

Scottish Crime and Justice Survey 2023-24

The full statistical publication is available on the Scottish Government website.

Another arrest in central belt organised crime gangs feud

A further arrest has been made as detectives continue to investigate a number of linked incidents in the West and East of Scotland, bringing the total to 42.

Officers executed a warrant at an address in Glasgow on the evening of Thursday, 29 May, 2025.

A 20-year-old man was arrested and charged in connection with fire-raising at a house on Drumchapel Road, Glasgow, on Tuesday, 13 May. He appeared at Glasgow Sheriff Court on Friday, 30 May. 

Extensive enquiries remain ongoing and a dedicated team of officers from our Specialist Crime Division, with support from local divisions across the country, continue to work together to gather vital evidence and reassure the public with intelligence-led patrols. 

Over the course of the investigation so far, more than 8,000 homes have been visited and more than 1,600 vehicles have been stopped, as officers continue to gather information.

Detective Chief Superintendent Dave Ferry said: “I want to be clear that violence will not be tolerated, and we will not stop until we bring those responsible to justice. 

“We are still following positive lines of enquiry, and this arrest highlights our continued resolve to target organised crime. 

“The support of our communities remains vital, and I want to again express my sincere thanks to the public for their continued help and information so far. 

“If you know anything that could assist our ongoing investigation, please do the right thing and speak to us.”

Anyone with information is asked to contact Police Scotland via 101 quoting incident number 0562 of Friday, 21 March, 2025. Alternatively, you can call Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111 where information can be given anonymously.

Man convicted for involvement in last year’s Bonfire Night disorder

A man has been convicted following his involvement in significant disorder within Edinburgh during Bonfire Night 2024.

Jordan McMillan, 24, was found guilty of culpable and reckless conduct after providing fireworks to individuals who then threw these items and other projectiles at police officers and members of the public in Niddrie Mains Road.

He will be sentenced on Monday, 14 July.

Chief Superintendent David Robertson, Divisional Commander for Edinburgh said: “This conviction should send a very clear message that the reckless and dangerous behaviour we witnessed across Edinburgh last year will not be tolerated.

“Further positive court outcomes for those involved in disorder during 2024 are anticipated and we are currently working with key partners ahead of Bonfire Night 2025 to protect our communities from this reckless and dangerous behaviour, which simply has to stop.”

Man sentenced for assault and robbery in Craigentinny

A man has been sentenced to four years in prison for assault and robbery in Edinburgh.

Conlan Carr, 27, was found guilty at Edinburgh Sheriff Court on Wednesday, 21 May, 2025. He was sentenced at the same court on Tuesday (3 June).

In the early hours of Thursday, 11 May, 2023, Carr entered a property on Craigentinny Road, armed with a knife.

He made threats to the two occupants, stealing a mobile phone and a car. A 29-year-old man was taken to hospital with serious injuries.

Detective Constable Euan Chancellor said: “This was a terrifying experience for those involved, and Carr will now face the consequences of his actions. I hope this outcome provides some reassurance to the victims.

“We remain committed to thoroughly investigating violent crime and ensuring those responsible are held to account.”

Call to help clamp down on illegal vape sales in Edinburgh

Shopkeepers’ leaders urge people not to buy from black market and pass on details of illicit sellers to police and trading standards

Edinburgh residents are being urged to help shut down supplies of illegal vapes across the region. The Scottish Grocers’ Federation (SGF) has issued a plea for people who use vaping products not to buy from illicit sellers.

And the city-headquartered convenience store trade body, which represents retailers in Edinburgh and throughout the Lothians, is urging people to share details of those who they suspect are selling goods illegally to pass on concerns to trading standards, police or anonymously via Crimestoppers.

Single-use vapes became outlawed across the United Kingdom on June 1. All stock needed to be immediately removed from shop shelves.

SGF President Graham Watson, himself a community convenience store owner, said: “As an organisation, we have significant concerns that an unintended consequence of the ban will be an increase in the illegal sale of vaping products.

“It is harmful in so many ways for illegal and unregulated products to be circulating.

“Our members work incredibly hard to champion responsible community retailing, within the law. Illicit supplies undermine the great work they do.

“With all of that in mind, we are asking people not to buy from illicit sellers and to share any information they have with those responsible for them to the authorities. If they do not have the information, they cannot act against them.”

Vape+Ban+posterDownload

SGF has issued a special guide to advise its members how to stay on the right side of the new law. 

It also encourages members to follow Challenge 25 policies to avoid the risk of illegal sales. The guidance to retailers from SGF is available here. 

Information about illicit trade can be passed to Police Scotland by calling 101. Details can be shared anonymously with Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.

Man sentenced for serious sexual assault in Edinburgh

A 25-year-old man has been sentenced after being convicted of a serious sexual assault in Edinburgh.

Rowan McKenna attacked a woman at a property in the west of the city in July 2023.

He was jailed for 10 years and six months and placed on the Sex Offenders Register when he appeared at the High Court in Edinburgh yesterday (Monday, 2 June), after being previously convicted for the serious sexual assault and an assault to injury.

Detective Sergeant Craig Donnelly said: “My thoughts are with the woman who showed immense strength in assisting our investigation. I hope this sentencing brings her some form of comfort.

“We are committed to bringing those responsible for sexual abuse to justice. We work with a range of partner agencies to support victims and carry out investigations.

“Anyone with concerns or information should contact Police Scotland through 101, or make a call anonymously to Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.”

Man to apear in court following series of break-ins

A 35-year-old man has been arrested & charged in connection with breaking into business premises in Dalry, Gorgie and the city centre.

Cafes, take-aways and food stores were broken into between Saturday 17 & Thursday 22 May.

He is due to appear at Edinburgh Sheriff Court on Monday (2nd June).

Appeal following serious sexual assault of teenage girl in City Centre

POLICE are appealing for information after a teenage girl was the victim of a serious sexual assault in Edinburgh on Sunday, 25 May, 2025.

The incident happened shortly after 5am in a basement storage area on York Place.

The 15-year-old girl was approached by a man at a bus stop by Marks and Spencer on Princes Street at around 5am. He then took her on foot to York Place.

After the assault the suspect left the area in the direction of Dublin Street.

The suspect is described as a white man with blond stubble/beard who spoke with a Scottish accent. He was wearing a black zip up hooded top, khaki green trousers, and Nike trainers. He wore a black balaclava.

Detective Inspector Mhairi Cooper from the Public Protection Unit in Edinburgh said: “This was a frightening incident for the girl and we have specialist officers supporting her and her family.

“From extensive enquiries within Edinburgh City Centre, we know the suspect approached her on Princes Street and then led her onto South St David Street, around St Andrew Square, onto Queen Street, then to York Place.

“Despite the early morning there was daylight in this busy commercial area. I am asking people who were within the area at the time and could have seen the suspect alone or with the victim, to come forward.

“CCTV from the New Town area is being gathered and checked – I would ask anyone with private systems to check these and submit anything of relevance to us as soon as possible.

“We continue to carry out door to door enquiries and I’d appeal to local residents and businesses in New Town who may have premises off street level to check any storage areas or lock ups and report any suspicious items or behaviour to us.”

Chief Inspector Brian Manchester, Local Area Commander, said: “We understand an incident such as this is concerning for the local community, and we have a dedicated enquiry team working on this investigation.

“Anyone with concerns should speak to officers without hesitation.”

Those with information should contact Police Scotland via 101 and quote incident number 0136 of 27 May 2025. An anonymous report can be made to Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.