Tag: Police Scotland

Police statement: Halloween horror

INQUIRIES CONTINUE INTO HALLOWEEN DISORDER

Police in Edinburgh are continuing with their inquiries to identify those involved in disorder that took place across various parts of the city last night on Halloween evening.

Local officers, supported by specialist colleagues from Operation Moonbeam, responded to the Hay Avenue area of Edinburgh, where groups of youths were involved in a range of offences involving fireworks.

While in attendance, police vehicles were also attacked with fireworks and other projectiles, including bricks.

A police officer was injured after the window of the vehicle she was within was struck by a brick, causing the window to smash.

Further incidents of fireworks related disorder were also responded at Moredunvale Road, Southhouse Road and Captains Road as well as West Pilton Park, where a number of busses were targeted.

A 14-year-old male has been arrested and charged in connection with fireworks offences. Further enquiries are ongoing to identify those involved in the disorder.

Following intelligence relating to planned disorder, a warrant was executed at an address in Magdalene Gardens during the afternoon of Thursday, 31 October. A quantity of fireworks and two cans of petrol were recovered from inside. Enquiries into this recovery are ongoing.

Chief Superintendent David Robertson, commander for Edinburgh Division said: “The disorder witnessed this evening was carried out by a minority of individuals intent on causing fear and alarm within their communities and subjecting emergency service workers to horrific levels of violence and aggression.

“Thankfully, local policing teams were bolstered with specialist colleagues, who helped bring these incidents to a safe conclusion and investigations are underway to identify everyone who was involved.

“I want to make it clear to anyone who thinks they will evade justice because they weren’t apprehended this evening, they are very much mistaken. You will be identified during our inquiries, and you will be held to account for your actions.

“Our local policing teams will continue to be supported by Operation Moonbeam resources over the next week to ensure any further incidents of disorder or fireworks-related criminality are appropriately dealt with.”

Anyone with information is asked to come forward and enquiries are continuing to identify those responsible.

The public are thanked for their assistance and support during our response.

Man charged in connection with fatal crash in Loanhead

A 51-year-old man has been charged in connection with a fatal road crash that took place in Loanhead on Tuesday, 19 December, 2023.

The crash took place on Knivensknowe Road where an 88-year-old man was struck by a Honda Civic car. He was taken to hospital where he died as a result of his injuries on Saturday, 23 December, 2023.

The 51-year-old driver of the car has been charged in connection with a road traffic offence.

A report will be submitted to the Procurator Fiscal.

Warning about ticket fraud after significant number of reports this year

POLICE are warning the public to be vigilant of fraudulent online ticket sales following a significant number of reports over the past nine months.

Between January and September, 2024 there were 313 reported incidents of frauds across Scotland involving the online sale of tickets for major events. This equates to 6% of all cyber fraud incidents.

60% relate to the Taylor Swift Eras Tour in Edinburgh with others for concerts and sporting events.

These frauds are not connected to the artists, venues, promoters or reputable ticket sale sites. The majority take place on social media and online marketplace platforms by individuals and groups looking to exploit members of the public for financial gain.

According to the figures, woman between the ages of 18 and 24 are most at risk from this type of fraud.

Inspector Alasdair Penny, Cybercrime Harm Prevention, said: “We’ve noticed a trend in this type of crime reported around major events happening in Scotland. The figures represent a significant proportion of cybercrime, but we believe these types of incidents are underreported and the true figure will be much higher.

“Reports relating to the Taylor Swift Eras Tour have made up the majority and we’re aware there are a number of highly anticipated events next year, including the Oasis tour and TRNSMT.

“We have publicly raised the threat of cyber criminality and the increase in online offending and have put plans in place to address it. The Chief Constable unveiled a new vision for Police Scotland, including a commitment to establish a new Cyber Command and increase our capabilities to tackle online fraud.

“We want to make sure the public is aware of potential fraudulent sales and provide advice around how to spot it. Our message is: be vigilant. If a price or offer seems too good to be true, it probably is.

“Before purchasing, carefully review the ticket details for authenticity. Check for accurate event information, including the date, time, and venue. Pay attention to the seating section or assigned seats, which can indicate fraudulent tickets.

“Buy from legitimate sources, check bank details provided and use secure payment methods. Credit cards and reputable online payment platforms offer additional protection against fraudulent transactions. Avoid paying with cash, wire transfers, or unsecured payment methods.

“Please report any fraudulent activity to police. We will fully investigate and we work alongside partners to raise awareness and tackle those involved in such offences.”

More information on online safety can be found on our website at:

https://www.scotland.police.uk/advice-and-information/student-online-safety-guide/

or on the Trading Standards Scotland website:

Secondary ticket sales

Further arrests made in connection with disorder following Hibs vs Motherwell football match

Officers investigating disorder following the Hibernian versus Motherwell football match that took place in Edinburgh on Saturday, 5 October, 2024, have made more arrests.

Four men, two aged 19, one aged 18 and one aged 24, along with a 16-year-old male youth, have been arrested and charged in connection with incidents in the St Andrew Square area.

They have been released on an undertaking to appear in court on a later date. Football banning orders are being sought.

Chief Inspector Craig Rogerson said: “Officers work hard to create a safe environment not just at football matches but also after the event.

“These arrests send a strong message that we will not tolerate football related disorder in any form.”

Appeal for information after man and woman assaulted and robbed on Leith Street

Detectives in Edinburgh are appealing for information after a man and a woman were assaulted and robbed in the city centre.

A 50-year-old man and a 32-year-old woman were at the pedestrian crossing at Leith Street and Princes Street junction around 10pm on Monday, 28 October, 2024 when they were assaulted and robbed by a group of people.

They were both taken to Edinburgh Royal Infirmary for treatment.

The suspects ran off towards St James Quarter and Multrees Walk.

Detective Sergeant Steven Gray of CID said: “This appears to have been a shockingly unprovoked and random attack, which left the victims requiring medical treatment. We are keen to trace three males and a female.

“The first male youth is described as aged between 14 and 16 years of age, tanned complexion, of medium build, with light curly hair which was short on top. He was wearing a black snood, a blue zipped jacket with white down the side.

“The second male is aged between 16 and 20 years of age, with dark hair. He was wearing dark clothing and white trainers.

“The third male is aged between 16-20 years of age, with dark hair. He was wearing dark clothing with white writing across the chest.

“The female is aged between 16 and 20 years of age, five-foot one inch tall, with blonde hair. She was wearing a white jacket.

“As part of our enquiries, we are reviewing CCTV to identify those responsible. We would ask if any has footage of the incident to please come forward.

“If you believe you could help our investigation, please call 101 quoting reference 4015 of 28 October, 2024. Alternatively, you can call Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111, if you wish to remain anonymous.”

Police Scotland launches new THAT GUY sexual crime prevention campaign

Be a mate, don’t be THAT GUY

Men are being challenged to be a mate, to step in and put a stop to behaviour that might put their friends at risk of sexual offending.

Last year, Police Scotland’s viral THAT GUY campaign challenged men’s attitudes and behaviour towards women. It put the cause of sexual offending where it belongs – with men.

This year’s campaign, launched today, urges men to be the solution to preventing sexual offending by having those difficult conversations with a friend who may have crossed the line.

Launching the campaign Deputy Chief Constable Malcolm Graham, Police Scotland, said: “Last year’s campaign asked men to reflect on their own behaviours and attitudes – and those of their friends, family and colleagues – towards women, to prevent rape, sexual assault and harassment.

“We held up the mirror to harassing and abusive behaviours that impact on women. Now we are focusing on a solution.

“Our new campaign is about what men can do. It asks them to think about the impact their friend’s behaviour has on women, and to step in, to be that friend. Be the mate who takes a friend aside, and has that quiet word. It’s about stopping a friend doing something they will regret.

“Of course not all men go on to offend but all men have a responsibility and a role to play in ending sexual violence against women and girls.

“This isn’t about shaming. We are asking men to be a mate, look out for your friends, to join the conversation and to stop sexual offending before it starts.”

THAT GUY builds on previous Police Scotland sexual crime prevention campaigns, targeting men aged 18 – 35 years who are most likely to commit sexual offences.

Its aim is to urge men to take responsibility for their actions and language to help effect a culture change to tackle sexual crime against women.

The campaign features a new advert which will run on several online platforms, including social media.

Watch the new THAT GUY video here

Visit the THAT GUY website for advice and resources

Missing Man: Have you seen Selim?

*** UPDATE – SELIM HAS BEEN TRACED SAFE AND WELL ***

POLICE are appealing for the help of the public to trace a 58-year-old man reported missing from the Leith area.

Selim El-Syed was last seen on the afternoon of Wednesday, 23 October, 2024, in East Hermitage Place and concerns are growing for his welfare.

He is described as around 5ft 4ins, of medium build with short black hair. He may be wearing a yellow jacket and green trousers.

Selim has a bus pass. He is known to travel around Edinburgh and further afield by bus. It is believed he may have travelled to the Peebles area.

Inspector Scott Currie said: “We need to make sure Selim is safe and well and we are asking anyone who has seen him or knows where he might be to get in touch. If you are out and about please keep an eye out for him and call us if you see him.”

Anyone who can help is asked to call Police Scotland on 101, quoting reference number 1133 of Saturday, 26 October, 2024.

Appeal after man injured following disturbance on Rannoch Road

Detectives are appealing for information after a man was injured following a disturbance in the Clermiston area last night (Friday, 25 October, 2024).

Around 10.50pm, officers were called to Rannoch Road where a 23-year-old man was found injured.

He was taken to the Royal Infirmary of Edinburgh where he is being treated for a laceration.

Enquiries are also ongoing to trace a second man who may have received a minor injury during this disturbance.

Detective Sergeant Jen Hughes said: “Our enquiries are ongoing to establish the full circumstances surrounding this incident and trace everyone involved.

“If you were in the Rannoch Road area around the time of the incident on Friday night and you haven’t yet spoken to police, I urge you to contact us.

“I would also ask anyone who was driving in the area and has dashcam footage or if you have any personal footage that may assist our investigation to please come forward.”

Anyone with information should contact 101 quoting reference number 4488 of 25 October. Alternatively Crimestoppers can be contacted on 0800 555 111, where anonymity can be maintained.

Drug dealer jailed for offences committed in prison

A 34-year-old man has been jailed for organised crime offences whilst in prison.

Christopher Smith was sentenced at the High Court in Livingston on Thursday (24 October) after pleading guilty to organising the supply of controlled drugs.

Smith’s offences occured at HMP Edinburgh and at addresses across Edinburgh, Inverness and Nairn between March 2018 and November 2019.

He will now spend seven years and five months in prison.

He was also issued with a Serious Crime Prevention Order, which will last for three years, to help prevent him returning to crime when he is released from jail.

Detective Inspector Angus Morrison said: “This conviction and sentencing highlights our ongoing commitment to disrupting the illegal and harmful supply of illegal drugs in our communities.

“I hope it sends a message to those involved in serious and organised crime that you will be caught and you will face the consequences.

“There is no place for this type of criminality in our communities. Such operations underline our commitment to the Serious Organised Crime Taskforce and the country’s Serious Organised Crime Strategy. We will continue to work with partner agencies to tackle this issue and make our communities safer.

“Information from the public is absolutely crucial to our work and we would continue to urge anyone with knowledge or concerns about drugs activity in their area to contact Police Scotland on 101.

“Alternatively, contact Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.”

Appeal for witnesses following petrol station robbery in South Queensferry

Detectives are appealing for information following a robbery in South Queensferry.

Around 2.15pm yesterday (Friday, 25 October, 2024), a man was seen outside a petrol station at Ferrymuir Gait.

A short time later he entered the premises, presented a weapon and demanded money.

The male staff member was unhurt and did not require medical treatment.

The suspect is described as being between 5ft 8ins and 5ft 10ins and of medium build. He was wearing a black beanie style hat with a grey trim, a grey snood which covered his mouth and nose. He was also wearing a brown coat with a fur trim collar and cuffs, blue jeans and white trainers. He wore blue gloves with writing on the rear of the left hand, was carrying a black backpack and he spoke with a local accent.

Detective Sergeant Martin Smith said: “The staff member was understandably shocked at what happened, but thankfully uninjured.

“Reviewing CCTV is key part of this enquiry and officers are extensively working through all available footage. If you have local CCTV or were in the area and have dash-cam footage, please get in touch as you may have captured something that can assist our investigation.

“Anyone with any information should contact Police Scotland on 101, quoting incident number 2072 of 25 October, 2024. Alternatively, Crimestoppers can be contacted anonymously on 0800 555 111.”