Police have made seven arrests as a result of an extensive investigation into a group of thieves who have been targeting tourists in the city centre.
Between 30th April and 23rd May there were 19 reported incidents in the capital of thefts committed by people impersonating police officers. On each occasion the suspects claimed to be police officers in order to search visitors’ bags.
Yesterday (Wednesday 28th May), investigating officers seized over £5,000 worth of foreign currency and a large amount of designer clothing following a search of a property in Murdoch Terrace.
One 26-year-old female and six males aged between 25 and 44 were subsequently arrested and held in custody. They will appear at Edinburgh Sheriff Court at a later date.
Detective Chief Inspector Stuart Houston said: “It is imperative that people visiting Edinburgh can do so without fear of such criminal acts occurring and the police actions that led to the arrest of this group of individuals is a significant breakthrough.
“We would like to thank members of the public for their help and continued support.”
Anyone with information on criminal activity in Edinburgh can contact Police Scotland on 101 or, alternatively, the charity Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111
John graduated from Telford College in 2010 with an HNC in Practical Journalism and since then he worked for the North Edinburgh News, The Southern Reporter, the Irish News Review and The Edinburgh Reporter. In addition he has been published in the Edinburgh Evening News and the Hibernian FC Programme.
