Police have arrested and charged two teenagers following a number of protests targeting two properties in the Musselburgh area which have involved varying levels of criminal behaviour.
The male youths, aged 14 and 15 were arrested and charged in connection with a disturbance at Stoneybank Avenue on Friday, 11 September, 2026.
Retrospective enquiries are ongoing into other incidents including vandalism to cars and properties.
Chief Inspector Benjamin Leathes said: “We recognise the concern and distress these incidents have caused to residents in Musselburgh. 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. Anyone engaging in this type of behaviour should be aware that they could face arrest.
“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.
“We will have additional patrols in the area over the coming days to provide reassurance and respond to any criminal behaviour associated with these protests.
“Anyone with information or concerns is encouraged to speak to our officers directly or contact us on 101.”
