Police in Edinburgh are urging members of the public to keep themselves and their belongings safe while shopping in the Capital during the festive period.
The city-centre is already extremely busy with many people visiting the various retail outlets and department stores to purchase Christmas gifts.
In addition, the European Market on the Mound is now open, with several hundreds of shoppers and revellers visiting at any one time.
As such, officers are keen to ensure the public remain vigilant for pickpockets and individuals looking to steal their gifts or personal possessions.
British Transport Police are also issuing their own safety advice to ensure those travelling home on the railway network do not fall victim to acquisitive criminals.
Inspector Nicola Page said: “This is a very exciting time within the city, with thousands of people visiting Edinburgh’s numerous stores to buy presents and other goods for Christmas.
“However, the increase in footfall also means that busy areas become attractive targets for criminals and we want to make sure that all of those taking to the shops are able to remain safe when doing so.
“We will be out on patrol within the city centre and within shopping malls to look out for any criminal activity and to distribute our ‘Stay Safe’ and ‘Hold Onto Your Stuff’ leaflets, which provide useful information on safeguarding your belongings.
“Anyone wishing to obtain one of these leaflets can also visit the Edinburgh Division Facebook page or the Police Scotland website.”
A British Transport Police spokesman said: “British Transport Police is urging those using the rail network over the festive period to enjoy themselves – but also to make sure they stay safe.
“Rail passengers and staff across the country will notice an increase in high-profile BTP patrols on trains and at stations to help make sure revellers get to their festive celebrations – and home again – safely and Christmas shoppers keep an eye on their newly purchased presents.”
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.
