Police launch Operation Close Pass

Campaign highlights space needed to pass cyclists safely 

Plain clothed police are taking to Edinburgh’s streets to highlight the space cyclists need for everyone to use our roads safely. Operation Close Pass will see drivers who pass an unmarked police cyclist too closely pulled over and given advice using a specially designed mat which shows how much space a person on a bicycle needs when overtaking them. Continue reading Police launch Operation Close Pass

Hate Crime: do you know this woman?

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Edinburgh police have released CCTV images of a woman that officers wish to trace following a hate crime on a bus where a 36-year-old woman and her children were subjected to xenophobic comments.

The incident happened around midday on Monday 9 May onboard a number 10 Lothian Bus travelling on Great Junction Street in Leith.

Officers believe that the woman shown in the images may be able to assist them with their enquiries.

She is described as white, in her early 40’s, of skinny build and at the time of the incident, she was wearing a white top and dark trousers.

Constable Thomas Winsor from Leith Police Station said: “The woman pictured in the CCTV footage is of interest to our ongoing inquiries and I would ask anyone who recognises her to contact police immediately. In addition, anyone with any further information relevant to this investigation should also come forward.”

Anyone with information is asked to contact Police Scotland on 101 or alternatively, the charity Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111 where all information can be provided anonymously.

Police initiative supports Drylaw Neighbourhood Centre

FORCE FOR GOOD’ COMMUNITY SPONSORSHIP INITIATIVE

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Police Mutual have been inviting officers around the country to apply for funds from their new ‘Force for Good’ initiative, designed to help community projects in our local area. Continue reading Police initiative supports Drylaw Neighbourhood Centre

Behave, police warn fans ahead of Easter Road clash

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Police are reminding fans that a policing operation will be in place at today’s Hibernian v Rangers football match to identify anyone in possession of alcohol, fireworks or flares.

Over 15,000 spectators are expected at Easter Road for the game, which kicks off at 12.45pm. Anti-social drinking in the surrounding streets will not be tolerated and officers will be enforcing the Edinburgh by-law in this regard.

Police officers will also be assisting stewards in conducting searches outside the ground to prevent illegal or prohibited items being smuggled in, including explosive or combustible materials.

Fans from both sides are urged to ensure their behaviour during the match does not put themselves or others in danger.

Superintendent Liz McAinsh said: “This is a significant fixture and we want all supporters to enjoy the day. Police will be patrolling around the stadium with a focus on stopping anti-social street drinking and fans will be subject to searches as a condition of entry to the ground.

“Police Scotland is committed to keeping people safe and while the behaviour of the vast majority of Hibs and Rangers fans is exemplary, the reckless conduct of a small minority could place others in danger.

“Anyone found to be in possession of these items, or any other objects that are not permitted within the stadium will be refused entry and may face further police action.”

Trinity man sees off gang of intruders

Police seek occupants of silver Vauxhall following Trinity robbery

policecarA man fought off up to six intruders after they broke into his home in Trinity earlier this week. 

The 36-year-old resident disturbed one of the robbers in his Afton Terrace home at around 9.30pm on Tuesday.

The pair struggled and were joined by more intruders – all are thought to be teenagers – who entered the house by the back door. The robbers then ran off and escaped in a silver Vauxhall which was parked at the front of the house.

It is understood a quantity of cash was taken.

The first robber is described as white, 5ft 10in, slim, around 17 years old, with short dark hair and was wearing a black woolly hat and a dark navy tracksuit with stripes and a gold logo on the arm.

The second was white, around 19 years old, 5ft 10in, slim, with short hair and was wearing a white and red scarf over his face, grey hoodie and grey trousers.

A third was white, around 19, 5ft 8in and chubby. The others are described as aged between 16 and 18 and wearing dark clothes.

Detective Constable Mark Seymour said: “This was a very frightening experience for the victim who discovered the suspects within his home and who was then assaulted.

“Anyone who was in the area of Afton Terrace and Granton Road at around 9.30pm and saw a silver Vauxhuall car or has information about who was responsible is urged to contact Police Scotland on 101.”

Edinburgh Police launch festive safety campaign

keep safePolice in Edinburgh have launched their annual campaign to keep people safe during the festive season.

As part of Operation Greenland, (formerly Operation Astrodome) officers in the city centre will each day issue a special ‘Countdown to Christmas’ photo on social media. The image will relate to a specific theme of festive safety or update the public on policing activity being carried out over Christmas and New Year.

The public can receive these images and updates by liking the Edinburgh Division Facebook page and by following the @EdinCityPolice Twitter account.

Social media users can also join in the discussion about the campaign by using the hashtag #OpGreenland.

As always, officers within the Capital will provide a high-visibility presence across the city in the coming weeks to offer a range of crime prevention and personal safety advice.

In addition, police will specifically target busy areas and destinations during the holiday season to distribute specially designed leaflets that inform the public on how to ‘Shop Safe’ and ‘Party Safe’.

Chief Superintendent Mark Williams, Divisional Commander for the City of Edinburgh said: “Edinburgh is one of the most beautiful, vibrant and safe cities in the world, and the policing plans we’re announcing today means this is set to continue into the festive season and beyond.

“The city is already getting busier, with locals and visitors taking full advantage of the shopping and attractions on offer, and many people will soon be out enjoying festive nights out in the restaurants, pubs and clubs.

“We are keen to ensure people can have a safe and enjoyable time whilst soaking up the fantastic atmosphere that the city has to offer.”

Community Safety Leader of the City of Edinburgh Council, Councillor Cammy Day, said: “Edinburgh is a safe place to visit and to live in, and our winter festival attracts people from around the world each year.

“We want to make sure that everyone will enjoy themselves and stay safe. I urge revellers to keep an eye on their belongings during a night out and to act responsibly.

“Working closely with the police and other agencies, our community safety wardens will be conducting high visibility patrols. Starting at the end of November, extra patrols will be out on Friday and Saturday evenings, and there will be a daily focus on the winter festival area.”

Ch Supt Williams said there are a number of simple steps you can take whilst enjoying the festive season. “Make sure you are always aware of your surroundings and keep your property safe when out and about. If you’re enjoying a night out in town then please drink responsibly and don’t let excessive alcohol consumption ruin your evening.

“This will also be our most interactive festive season yet and through social media we will issue a new ‘Countdown to Christmas’ photo each day with further information and advice. Members of the public can view these images by liking the Edinburgh Division Facebook page and following our @EdinCityPolice Twitter account.

“Updates on all Operation Greenland activity will also be available on these sites, as well as our @EdinburghPolice Twitter account, which covers the entire city.”