Local men arrested following series of crimes across Central Scotland

Three males have been arrested and charged following an extensive investigation into a series of housebreakings and thefts across central Scotland.

The offences occurred in the Fife, Stirling, Glasgow and West Lothian areas between 26 September and 1 October, 2025.

On Thursday, 16 October, 2025, officers executed arrest warrants at three properties in Edinburgh.

A 35-year-old man was arrested from Ferry Road, a 20-year-old man was arrested from Wester Drylaw Drive. Both have been charged in connection with several offences, including housebreaking, vehicle theft and road traffic offences.

The men were due to appear at Livingston Sheriff Court yesterday (Friday 17 October).

A 17-year-old male was arrested from Broomhouse Grove. He was charged with theft and released to appear at court at a later date.

Detective Sergeant John Irvine said: “Crimes of this nature have a serious impact on the victims, causing them to question the safety and security of their own homes, and I would like to commend the work of the officers investigating this crime series.

“I would also like to thank the various local communities for their assistance with our enquiries to date and reassure the public that any reports of criminality will be investigated thoroughly by Police Scotland.”

Warning for vehicle owners following thefts in Lothian and Borders area

POLICE are asking owners of vehicles to be aware following a number of thefts across Lothian and Borders. 

A blue VW Golf R, registration PO15 XVW, was stolen from Onslow Street, Craigshill having been parked and secured on the driveway, at 11pm on Friday, 28 February, 2025. Other items were taken from the property after entry was gained.

About 1.30am on Saturday, 1 March, a white Golf R, registration CE65 RZF, was taken from East Lodge, Uphall. The vehicle was subsequently recovered on the M9 motorway after the occupants have made off in a separate grey Audi S3.

A short time later, around 1.50am, two people entered a business premises in Goschen Place, Broxburn, stealing keys for vehicles however no vehicles were stolen at this time.

Around 3.30am the same day, people wearing balaclavas were seen at the side of a property in Redmill Court, Whitburn. Entry was not gained to the property and they left the area in a white VW Golf R, believed to be the one taken from Uphall.

Around 1.30am on Monday, 3 March, we received a report of the attempted theft of a VW Golf and a Range Rover from Kings Well Crescent in Broxburn.

Later, around 2.50am, a grey Audi was stolen from West Holmes Place in Uphall. This was later traced.

Around 3.10am a BMW and a Jaguar were stolen from a driveway in Forkneuk Road, Uphall. Both vehicles were traced nearby a short time later.

Inspector John Fleming said: “We have officers investigating these crimes as a matter of priority in an effort to disrupt this criminal activity. We are treating these incidents as linked and would appeal for anyone with information to contact us.

“We’d strongly urge the public to ensure security measures are in place to try to protect vehicles.

“If you have a garage, please use it to secure your vehicle out of sight. Ensure your vehicle is locked and all valuables removed when not in use. Trackers and tracking devices are also a form of additional security and can assist recovering stolen cars quickly.

“If you witness any suspicious activity, I would ask you contact Police Scotland on 101 or Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.”