Police have arrested and charged two women for pickpocketing in the city centre and a third for theft of a handbag within a licensed premises.
On Thursday (12th December), officers observed two women acting suspiciously on Upper Bow. They were subsequently arrested for attempt theft and are due to appear before Edinburgh Sheriff Court for pickpocketing offences.
In the early hours of yesterday morning, a third woman was arrested after staff at a licensed premises in the Cowgate identified her from CCTV stealing from a customer’s bag.
Inspector Trish Robertson from the West End Police Station said: “We are committed to ensuring that Edinburgh is a safe place to be, particularly at this time of year with the Christmas Market in full swing and people out shopping and celebrating.
“We have officers on patrol in uniform and in plain clothes, and one of our main focuses is acquisitive crime such as pickpocketing and thefts. Thankfully, due to the vigilance of the officers and staff involved in these incidents, three people have been arrested and charged.
“I’d like to remind everyone shopping or visiting the city centre to look after your belongings. Keep all of your bags and valuables safe and with you at all times. If you see anyone acting suspiciously, please report it. Keep your purses and wallets in a zipped inside pocket wherever possible and make sure any bags are closed and are in sight at all times.
“Anyone with information regarding such offences are asked to contact Police Scotland on 101, or anonymously through Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.”