An investigation is underway after two instances of pickpocketing in Edinburgh’s city centre.

The first took place on St Andrew Square after two men distracted a man before stealing his wallet, then shortly afterwards the stole a £12,000 Rolex watch from another man’s wrist in Princes Street.

The thefts occurred between 1.45am and 2am on Sunday morning

Investigating officers are reminding the public to remain vigilant and alert during the busy winter months.

Inspector David Brady said: “When we launched Operation Winter City on Friday, we were keen to highlight that opportunistic criminals would be operating in the city centre area and this has proven the case, with two pickpocketing reports having now been recorded.

“Please be wary of anyone getting too close to your personal space or attempting any form of distraction, as they may be looking to steal your belongings.

“It is also important to remember and keep hold of your possessions at all times and do not have any items of value out on display.

“Our crime prevention advice can be found on our website.”

For more information, go to scotland.police.uk/keep-safe.

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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.