Police in Edinburgh are appealing for witnesses following an attempted armed robbery in Niddrie.
The incident happened around 6:20pm on Friday, November 6, outside a property on Niddrie Mill Terrace.
A 67-year-old man was in his car and about to drive off, when an unknown male approached his window. The suspect tried to enter the vehicle and demanded that the man hand over money. The suspect then presented a firearm prompting the male to drive away. The attacker was last seen running towards Niddrie Mains Road before being lost from sight.
A thorough investigation is now underway in order to trace the male as quickly as possible and police are appealing for the assistance of the public.
He is described as white, around 16-years-old, approximately 5ft 6ins tall, spoke with a local accent, wore a grey woolly hat and scarf, and a grey and black coloured tracksuit.
Detective Inspector Graham Grant who is leading the investigation said: “Fortunately, no one was injured during this attempted robbery but there is no doubt that this was a terrifying experience.
“Uniformed officers will have a high-visibility presence in the area while we conduct our investigation and I appeal to anyone who has any relevant information to come forward immediately.
“The male suspect was in possession of a handgun however, at this stage of our inquiry, we believe that this was not a functioning firearm.
“Those who were in the Niddrie area on Friday evening and recognise the description of the suspect or have any information that might assist with our ongoing investigation are asked to contact police on 101 or, alternatively information can be passed anonymously through the charity Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.”
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