Investigation underway following spate of housebreakings in Midlothian

Police are appealing for witnesses following a spate of
business and residential housebreakings.

The first incident happened sometime during the late evening
of Thursday 27th June at an address in Greenlaw Grove, Penicuik.

After entry was forced to the home, several thousands of
pounds worth of jewellery, including rings, necklaces and earrings, were stolen
from within.

A red Nissan Qashqai, with registration number SM14WRK, was
also taken from outside the property.

Four break-ins then took place between midnight and 1.30am
on Friday 28th June at business premises in Lasswade, Gorebridge and Penicuik.

The Paper Mill and Melville Golf Centre in Lasswade were
both targeted along with the Gorebridge Leisure Centre and a restaurant in the
Milton Bridge area of Penicuik.

While nothing was stolen from the Paper Mill, all of the
other business reported that quantities of cash had been stolen.

The stolen Nissan Qashqai from the address in Greenlaw Grove
is believed to have been used by those responsible and inquiries are continuing
to trace this vehicle.

Anyone with information is asked to come forward.

Constable John Lumsden from the Community Investigation Unit
said: “After the house in Penicuik was broken into, the vehicle stolen
from this address has then been used to commit a series of break-ins to
business around Midlothian and as such, we are progressing this investigation
under Operation Greenbay.

“Anyone who remembers seeing any suspicious activity
within Greenlaw Grove, or any of the affected premises between the evening of
Thursday 27th June and into the early hours of Friday 28th June, should contact
police immediately.

“Likewise, if anyone has seen the stolen Nissan
Quashqai since last Friday morning, or knows it’s current whereabouts should
also get in touch.”

Those with information can contact the Community
Investigation Unit via 101 and quote incident number 1682 of the 3rd July.
Alternatively, an anonymous report can be made to the charity Crimestoppers on
0800 555 111.