Police report fall in violent crime and increase in number of recovered knives

Police officers in the capital have taken a greater number of knives off the streets during the first quarter of 2020/21.

Chief Superintendent Sean Scott said: “DCC Fiona Taylor has made clear, the first quarter period of 2020/21 is extremely unprecedented, given the restrictions placed on the public’s movements. As such, we must not be tempted to jump to hasty conclusions on crime trends at this time.

“It is however, reassuring to observe a fall in violent crimes such as serious assault, as well as robbery and assault with intent to rob, coupled with a greater detection rate for weapon possession offences.

“We will continue to target all forms of criminality in Edinburgh in order to keep the city a safe place to live, work and visit, while at the same time building on the national success of improving public confidence in policing.”