Tag: Police Scotland

Fraud: Ringing The Changes

Police are reminding local businesses and retail outlets to be vigilant following a recent fraud known as ‘Ringing the Changes’ which was committed in the city centre.

The incident occurred around 5.45pm on Monday (2nd March) in a shop on Rose Street.

This type of fraud involves the suspect using deception tactics and sleight of hand during a request to change large sums of money into different denominations. The suspect would then leave retailer or business hundreds of pounds short, after they have taken possession of the cash.

PC Chris Bright of Gayfield Police Station said: “We would like to remind businesses, retailers and members of the public to be aware of this behaviour and to remain vigilant.

“We would also ask anyone aware of suspicious behaviour to contact Police Scotland immediately via 101 or by calling the charity Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.”

£13 million saved from fraudsters

Criminals have been stopped from fraudulently withdrawing around £13 million from bank accounts, according to a new report into serious organised crime in Scotland.

The report, published by the Serious Organised Crime Taskforce, also details programmes established to divert young people away from a life of crime and an online training resource which helps identify the signs of serious organised crime. One section highlights the efforts being made to tackle motorcycle crime in Edinburgh.

Justice Secretary Humza Yousaf, who chairs the Taskforce meetings, said: “The Taskforce partners have delivered a wide range of activities to tackle serious organised crime – contributing to a safer, fairer and more prosperous country. Among the successes has been the implementation of the Banking Protocol which has been adopted by most of the major banks operating in Scotland.

“Banking staff have prevented more than £13 million from being withdrawn from the accounts of often older or vulnerable people. These incidents tended to centre around conning people into withdrawing their money or paying excessive amounts for work that was not needed or was of poor standard. And in some cases these people have been accompanied at the bank by a member of the group in a bid to get the money.

“The report underlines the continuing grip organised criminals have on some of our most disadvantaged communities and we are determined to do all that we can to make Scotland a hostile environment for anyone who seeks to exploit others.”

Alasdair Macfarlane, Head of Fraud Prevention and Response at Royal Bank of Scotland, said: “These types of scams have a devastating impact on our customers’ lives and that’s why our branch colleagues are trained to identify and help prevent these crimes.

“Working in collaboration with Police Scotland we are disrupting these criminals. However, customers should always be aware that we, nor the police, will ever ask a customer to transfer money to a safe account and if asked to do so they should call us on a trusted number and preferably on a different phoneline.”

Major banks operating in Scotland who have signed up to the Banking Protocol include Barclays Bank, Bank of Scotland, Clydesdale, Nationwide, Royal Bank of Scotland, Santander, TSB Bank.

Police Scotland Assistant Chief Constable Angela McLaren said: “We are committed to tackling serious and organised and will persistently pursue those who set out to cause harm and misery to our communities.

“By working in collaboration with key partners the Serious Organised Crime Taskforce has already had notable success in detecting and disrupting a number of organised crime groups and crime types.

“This has also included a range of activities to divert people away from becoming involved in serious and organised crime

“We cannot and will not become complacent in our efforts and through the SOC Taskforce we will continue to identify those involved in organised crime, dismantle their operations and bring them before the courts.”

The Serious Organised Crime Taskforce was established in 2007 and has 13 members with more supporting the work taken forward by the Taskforce’s four Strand subgroups.

The progress report outlines the nature and scope of organised crime in Scotland, where there were a total of 112 serious organised crime groups made up of around 2,400 people (as at the end of March 2019). Seventy-two per cent of SOCGs are located in the West of Scotland, 18% in the East and 10 % in the North.

Sixty-nine per cent of SOCGs are involved in drugs crime, 72% are involved in the use of seemingly legitimate businesses. The most common being licensed premises, taxis, restaurants, shops, garage repairs and vehicle maintenance and property development.

As at September 2019 there were 205 individuals, linked to 68 separate crime groups, held in prison custody.

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‘Behave’ warning ahead of tonight’s capital clash

Police Scotland is requesting fans attending tonight’s Edinburgh derby do so in a responsible manner. The game kicks off at 7.45pm with a capacity crowd expected at Easter Road.

Police Scotland will have a number of officers and specialist resources in and around the stadium and across the city on match day to assist both football clubs and stewards in ensuring the safety of all those attending the game.

Chief Inspector David Happs, Event Police Lead, said: “The Edinburgh derby is one of the most exciting and popular fixtures in the Scottish football calendar. A capacity crowd is expected with more watching from home.

“We want both sets of fans to enjoy the game safely and in the proper spirit. It is essential that supporters act in a responsible manner and do not put themselves or others at risk.

“As such any flare, firework or any controlled container or bottle which could cause harm if thrown, is strictly forbidden from the ground. Items such as flares or smoke devices are dangerous and can endanger your own and others’ safety.

“It is illegal to enter or even attempt to enter the stadium with them so if you are found to be in possession of any prohibited items you are likely to be arrested, face prosecution and a football banning order.

“Criminality will not be tolerated and we will work with both football clubs to identify any person involved.

“There will be a high visibility police presence at the turnstiles to support the steward search operation of those persons entering the stadium. Anyone trying to get into the stadium whilst drunk will not see the game and may also face arrest and prosecution.

“Turnstiles open at 6.45pm and I would encourage spectators to arrive early at the stadium. Enjoy the game and please check the club websites for further details about stadium access and the ground rules.”

Hearts supporters not making the trip across the city can watch the game in the Eighteen74 fans’ bar at Tynecastle.

Tickets will once again include a welcome drink and half-time pie. Tickets are priced at £5 and a cash bar will be open throughout. Special guest speakers Henry Smith and Walter Kidd will be on hand for pre and post-match analysis and interviews.

The Eighteen74 fans’ bar will be open at 5pm with the event starting at 6:30pm.

CLICK HERE to book tickets online

Both Hibs and Hearts go into the derby on the back of Scottish Cup wins. Hibs gave  their most impressive performance of the season when they swept away John Robertson’s Inverness Caley Thistle on Friday evening, with their five goals scored by five different scorers.

While Hibs victory was universally expected, Hearts win over Rangers decidely was not. While the Tynecastle side remains deep in the mire at the foot of the Premiership table, the Gorgie men put their league form behind them with a well-deserved 1 – 0 victory – setting up a mouth-watering all-Edinburgh Cup semi-final in the process.

Emphatic victory for either side tonight would see them going into the cup game with a psychological edge, but despite the gulf in their respective league positions this is likely to be a typically tight derby.

Hibs go into the game on a high and, should they reproduce their Friday form their pace will pose a severe threat to a jittery Hearts rearguard. However Hibs fans won’t need reminding that their heroes have often outplayed their city rivals in recent years – only to end up wondering how they managed to lose!

Rock bottom of the league and two points adrift of nearest team Hamilton, this is a game Hearts really can’t afford to lose. Saturday’s cup result was a huge boost for the beleaguered outfit, but they now need to carry this renewed appetite into their league form – and what better game to show that continued improvement than against their oldest rivals?

Hearts coach Daniel Stendel has urged his players to build on their performance against Rangers when they face Hibs in Leith tonight.

Speaking ahead of tonight’s Derby, the German was clear in terms of what will be required of his men on the night.

“The Rangers result was good for everyone; the team, the staff, the supporters. I told the players to enjoy this moment but on Sunday morning the only thing in our head was Hibs,” he said.

“We focused heavily on our defensive work in recent weeks. There was a big improvement against Rangers. Our problems haven’t been about high press or no press, it’s been about discipline and concentration. The biggest thing for me about the Rangers game was how good our discipline was and this must be the case against Hibs as well.”

“We need the same attitude, mentality and quality in our game in order to win the points at Easter Road.

“We have done everything we can to be as prepared as possible. The league is so important and of course it’s against Hibs. My first game against them was not so successful and I hope the second one is better.”

First goal – should there be one – could prove to be crucial.

Not got a ticket? There are some still available and the game is also live on the BT Sport channel.

Hibernian Football Club HeartofMidlothianFC

 

Police appeal following Morningside assault

Police are appealing for information after a 32-year-old man was assaulted and robbed in Morningside at 10pm on Friday (28 February).

The victim was near the junction of Cluny Avenue and Hermitage Terrace when he was approached by two men and assaulted and robbed. He was unhurt but shocked by the incident.

He was robbed of a two figure sum of money, an Apple laptop and iPhone.

One of the suspects is described as white, in his late 20’s to early 30’s, 5’9” in height, of slim build, wearing grey coloured hooded top with hood up, dark coloured tracksuit bottoms and had a local accent.

The second suspect is about 5’8” in height, wearing a dark coloured jacket.

The suspects ran off in the direction of Hermitage Terrace.

Anyone with any information should contact Police Scotland on 101, quoting 4322 of 28 February or speak to any police officers.

Alternatively if you have any information about the incident you can contact the independent charity Crimestoppers 100% anonymously on 0800 555 111 or via their Anonymous Online Form at crimestoppers-uk.org.

Bravery and Excellence Awards celebrated at Tulliallan

The commitment, initiative and bravery of Police Scotland officers and staff, as well as partner organisations and members of the public, were recognised and celebrated yesterday at the Police Scotland Headquarters, Tulliallan.

Held as a joint event for the first time, the Chief Constable’s Bravery and Excellence Awards was attended by senior officers, politicians, stakeholders and family members.

Chief Constable Iain Livingstone QPM presented 29 Bravery awards to 34 police officers, 24 members of the public – and two police dogs. Among those receiving Bravery awards were:

  • PC Paul O’Donnell, and Police Dog Remo were on duty in Ayrshire when they traced an individual who became very aggressive. He hit both PC O’Donnell and Remo in the face with a metal pole, before biting the dog’s ear. Despite their significant injuries, they were able to restrain their attacked until additional officers arrived and arrested him.
  • Elizabeth Hutchison, who was driving in Edinburgh when she saw a woman in a distressed condition, walking without shoes in torrential rain, who made her way to a bridge and threatened to jump.

  • Elizabeth (above) was able to help the woman down and alert police, before restraining her when she tried to run off. As a result of Ms Hutchison’s actions, a very vulnerable member of the public was able to receive the necessary treatment at hospital.
  • Member of police staff, Alan Rae, was delivering a driving course to police officers in Aberdeen when a van with no-one inside began to roll backwards down a hill towards university and mosque buildings. He was able to catch up to the moving vehicle, get inside and bring it to a stop, avoiding a potentially serious incident.

Mr Livingstone also presented Excellence awards in 11 categories, including Greatest Contribution to Policing Priorities and Policing Partner of the Year, as well as a number of individual awards.

Police Officer of the Year was named as Inspector Kieran Dougal from City of Edinburgh Division, who, on transferring into community policing, made an immediate impact by taking ownership of key problems in the area, including road safety, hate crime, theft and domestic abuse, and is considered a valued leader among his peers.

Policing Partner of the Year was presented to Sarah Finnegan from Barnardo’s for the RISE Project, a two-year pilot project in Dundee and Aberdeen designed to address the Scottish Government’s National Action Plan to prevent and tackle child sexual exploitation. She has been instrumental in transforming local services and designing a more trauma informed approach to children and young people at risk in Dundee.

Police Scotland’s Unsung Hero was named as Detective Constable Iain McKinlay from Greater Glasgow Division for his unstinting work relating to the investigation of vehicle crime. He has established critical partnerships within the UK and abroad to identify organised crime groups involved in car theft and provided advice and assistance to officers across Scotland.

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Chief Constable Iain Livingstone QPM said: “Policing is a challenging and rewarding vocation, which unites us through a shared sense of public service, and I hear, every day, about the work of professional and compassionate people who are dedicated to improving the lives of their fellow citizens.

“I believe this to be the single most important thing we must all remember as police officers and staff: we are there to serve the public. We are the public and the public are the police.

“Therefore, it is absolutely right and proper for the dedication of our officers and staff to be publicly acknowledged, and at the same time commend members of the public for the selfless acts of bravery and courage which have made a significant contribution to others and their communities.

“I extend my heartfelt congratulations to all our winners and nominees today and thank them all for their efforts.”

The event was sponsored by Police Mutual, an organisation which has supported the police family for more than 150 years, providing financial services and wellbeing support.

Police Mutual’s Chief Executive, John Perks, said: “It’s a huge privilege to work alongside the police service and we are immensely proud to sponsor this event. 

“These awards not only shine a light on projects across various areas, celebrating successes that have been achieved amidst a backdrop of increasing challenges for the police service, they are also here to recognise the bravery of officers, where ordinary days turned into extraordinary days.

“All the nominees and winners should be immensely proud of their achievements – they have shown themselves to be dedicated to keeping the public safe through outstanding work and extraordinary levels of professional commitment, in line with Police Scotland’s values.

“We are always humbled by your outstanding demonstrations of courage and I am delighted to also be able to recognise Excellence in Policing. They are not only a credit to their families, friends and communities, but also to Police Scotland and the wider Police Service.”

Justice Secretary Humza Yousaf said: “I congratulate all of those who have been honoured with this year’s Awards.  While the acts of bravery that are being recognised are exceptional, courage is often present in policing across the country. Police officers and staff are ordinary men and women who go above and beyond what is expected of them, often facing challenging and difficult situations.

“I have been struck by the incredible professionalism, dedication and expertise demonstrated in these awards. Whether call-handlers, cyber specialists, forensic experts, special constables, full-time officers, or members of the public, the people here today have played a role in keeping our communities safe. It is important to recognise this and the work that goes on across Scotland.”

David Crichton, Vice Chair of the Scottish Police Authority said: “We know our officers and staff are undertaking courageous, innovative and high quality work in the communities of Scotland.

“Today’s award ceremony is an opportunity to celebrate just a few of the selfless acts which help keep the citizens of Scotland safer. It is also an opportunity to recognise those members of the public who have helped us in that task.

“Congratulations to all today’s winners and to all those who were nominated for awards.”

Police seek witnesses to Murrayfield attack

Police are appealing for witnesses following an assault and attempted robbery in Murrayfield on Monday night.

The incident happened around 11.35pm on Murrayfield Road and involved a 39-year-old woman.

She was grabbed from behind by a man who demanded she give him her handbag and purse before being disturbed by an approaching car which stopped to help. The woman did not sustain any injury.

The suspect is described as being 6ft tall, of a skinny build and speaking with a local Edinburgh accent. At the time of the incident he was wearing dark clothing, with his hood up and a scarf covering his face. He was also wearing blue, latex style gloves.

Detective Sergeant Tood Rutherford, of Corstorphone CID said: “This was a terrifying experience for the woman involved who was thankfully not hurt during the incident.

“Officers are reviewing CCTV footage in the area to help trace the person responsible for this and I would urge anyone with private of business systems to check their footage.

“We are also appealing to the driver of the car who came to the aid of the woman to get in touch with us to help us with our enquiries.

“Similarly, I would ask anyone who saw the suspect walking in the area prior to, or after the incident or has information which may be relevant to contact police as soon as possible.”

Anyone with information should contact police on 101, quoting incident number 4038 of Monday, 24 February or alternatively call Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.

Police seek couple following Carrubbers Close assault

Police are appealing for witnesses following an assault in Carrubbers Close off the Royal Mile. The incident happened around 12.00am last Saturday (22 February), when a 28 year old man suffered significant facial injuries which required hospital treatment.

Officers are keen to speak to a man and woman who may be able to assist with enquiries.

The man described as being 25-35 years old, of slim build, with short curly hair wearing black clothing.

The woman is described as being 25-35 years old, of slim build, long dark hair wearing a hooded jacket and in possession of a black hand bag.

Constable Jonathan Goldring, of Gayfield Square Police Station, said: ‘There were a number of people around the area when this incident happened and we are appealing for them to get in touch if they saw what happened.

‘As part of our enquiries we are reviewing CCTV footage in the area and would ask anyone with private or business systems to check their footage for description of the suspects above’.

Those with information should contact Police Scotland on 101, quoting incident number 0802 of 22 February 2020, or make a call anonymously to the charity Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.

Tollcross attack: man to appear in court

Police are appealing for witnesses following a serious assault in Tollcross. The incident happened on Panmure Place, close to the junction with Brougham Street, at around 11.50pm on Friday.

A 58-year-old man was approached by a man who was walking his dog along Panmure Place. The man struck the victim to the head with a glass bottle before pinning him to the ground, causing further serious injury to his face.

The victim was taken to hospital for treatment by the Scottish Ambulance Service with serious facial injuries.

The suspect is described as white, around 5ft 8ins tall, aged between 30 and 40-years-old, and of stocky build. He was wearing a dark jacket and was walking a small brown coloured terrier-type dog.

Detective Constable Oliver Healy, of Gayfield CID, said: “There were a number of people around the area when this incident happened and we are appealing for them to get in touch if they saw what happened.

“As part of our enquiries we are reviewing CCTV footage in the area and would ask anyone with private or business systems to check their footage for the incident.

“We would also appeal to anyone who saw the suspect walking his dog prior to, or after the incident last night, or who can identify him, to come forward and contact officers as soon as possible.”

Those with information should contact Police Scotland on 101, quoting incident number 4790 of 21st February, or make a call anonymously to the charity Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.

A 47 year-old man has been arrested and charged in connection with this serious assault and he is due before Edinburgh Sheriff Court tomorrow – Monday, 24 February.

A full report will be sent to the Procurator Fiscal.

Valentine’s Day robbery at Ocean Terminal

Police are appealing for witnesses following a robbery and assault in Leith. The incident happened around 7.10pm in Ocean Drive, outside the Ocean Terminal shopping centre, on Friday, 14 February.

A 43-year-old man has just left the shopping centre and crossed the road when he was approached by two women. They claimed to be police officers, took hold of him and searched him. The women then walked off. He subsequently found a three figure sum of cash missing from his wallet.

The first woman is described as white, 5ft 9ins, of stocky build, around 40-year-old, with shoulder length blonde hair that was tied up. She was wearing a blue Puffa style jacket and spoke with a local accent.

The second woman is described as white, 6ft, so slim build with long brown hair and also aged around 40. She was wearing a black Puffa style jacket.

Detective Constable Joanne Robertson, of Gayfield CID, said: “There were a number of people around when this incident happened and we are appealing for them to get in touch if they saw what happened.

“In particular we are keen to speak to two men who were at or near a bus stop at the time and are believed to have taken a number 200 Lothian bus.

“If you saw what happened, or anything suspicious around that time of the evening, then please contact Police Scotland on 101, quoting incident 3328 of Friday, 14 February. Or make a call anonymously to the charity Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.”

Four jailed for drug supply

Police Scotland has acknowledged the sentencing of four people who have admitted involvement in the supply of drugs in Edinburgh.

John Lloyd, 21, Humaysa Khan, 20, and Jordan Allan, 22, all pleaded guilty to supplying heroin and cocaine worth around £123,500 in Edinburgh between 20 July and 20 August, 2019.

Etima Udottong, 35, admitted supplying cocaine worth approximately £120,000 in the city on 2 October, 2019.

All four were sentenced at the High Court in Glasgow yesterday.

Allan was jailed for three years and nine months, Khan for four years and four months, Lloyd for three years and nine months and Uddotong for three years and two months.

Detective Inspector Gary Reid said: “These convictions serve as another example of our commitment to target anyone we suspect to be involved in the supply chain of illegal drugs.

“This hopefully sends a clear message that whoever you are and wherever you are from, we will continue to proactively target anyone suspected of being involved in bringing illegal and harmful drugs into our communities.

“Lloyd, Khan, Allan and Udottong were all identified during an exhaustive investigation into their activities.

“People involved in the drug trade often exploit the most vulnerable members of society so we all have an obligation to help protect each other by reporting any suspicious or harmful behaviour that may be happening in local areas.

“We are grateful to the public for every piece of information we receive which is used to disrupt the trade in drugs and bring those responsible for supplying to justice.

“If anyone has any concerns regarding the abuse of controlled drugs, or anyone who may be involved in the supply of controlled drugs, they are urged to contact Police on 101 or Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111”