Police are appealing for witnesses after a number of garages in the Trinity area were targeted over the weekend.
The incidents happened around 5.15 p.m. on Friday 29th July within Laverock Bank.
A group of five men forced entry to one of the units and attempted to break into a further four when a member of the public challenged them.
At this time the men assaulted the victim and threw a traffic cone at him before making off from the area in a white car-derived van, similar to a Vauxhall Combo or Peugeot Partner.
Local officers have since been doing door-to-door inquiries to speak with residents as they attempt to identify those responsible.
Anyone who can assist with their ongoing investigation is asked to come forward.
The suspects are described only as white and aged between 17 and 25-years-old.
Constable Gordon Steven from Drylaw Police Station said: “This was a very distressing incident for the victim who confronted the men as they carried out these offences and we are keen to hear from anyone who was in Laverock Bank on Friday evening and remembers seeing anything suspicious.
“In addition, anyone who believes they know how we can trace the suspects, or who has any further information relevant to this inquiry, should also contact police immediately.”
Those with information 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.
