Two male youths aged 17 and 14 have been arrested and charged in connection with a disturbance at Pavilion Court, Penicuik on Monday, 27 July, 2026.
Officers said that during the past week, protests focussing mainly on registered sex offenders in Dalkeith, Bonnyrigg and Penicuik, have been associated with varying levels of criminal behaviour.
And retrospective enquiries are ongoing into other incidents including vandalism to cars and properties.
Chief Inspector Gordon Couper said: “We recognise the concern and distress these incidents have caused to residents in Midlothian.
“Our role is to ensure public safety, responding proportionally to any incidents that happen and minimise disruption.
“Recent protests have focused on registered sex offenders and people perceived to be sex offenders.
“Our approach to policing these events remains unchanged. Campaigning and peaceful protests are legitimate in a democratic society. We recognise and uphold the right of individuals to express their views lawfully and to protest peacefully,
“However, there is a clear distinction between lawful protest and criminal behaviour. We are not opposed to peaceful protest; we are committed to preventing crime. Violence, disorder, hate crime and threatening and abusive behaviour that places others at risk are not forms of protest and will be dealt with appropriately.
“Registered sex offenders are managed robustly and effectively through Multi-Agency Public Protection Arrangements, known as MAPPA. These arrangements provide a comprehensive response to a complex issue, using professional assessment and risk management.
“‘Outing’ registered sex offenders on social media or physically confronting them significantly affects the ability of police and partners to manage risk effectively. It also undermines the measures already in place to protect the public.
“It also requires additional policing resources, reducing our ability to respond quickly and effectively to other calls for assistance from local communities.
“Policing in Scotland has strong relationships with the public and we are grateful for the ongoing support of our communities.”
