POLICE in Edinburgh investigating the murder of a Polish man in Leith are appealing to taxi drivers to help trace a man who they believe can help them with their inquiries.
Thirty four year old Maciej Ciania was found dead in his flat in Dickson Streetlast Saturday morning (14th January) by his flatmate.
Detectives working on the case are now keen to trace a man who may have hailed a taxi in theLeitharea on between 10.45 and 11.30pm on Friday night.
The man detectives are keen to trace is described as being in his twenties, wearing a dark jacket and grey trousers. He may have spoken with an Eastern European accent.
Police believe he may have got in a taxi on Easter Road, Leith Walk, or any of the surrounding streets.
Similarly, officers would like to speak to anyone who was in the area at the time and who may have seen a man fitting the description walking around the vicinity of Dickson Street.
Detective Superintendent Allan Jones said: “Mr Ciania suffered considerably at the hands of his killer, and, as a matter of urgency, we are keen to trace anyone who can help us in our inquiries.
“I would appeal to taxi drivers, residents and anyone in the area between Leith Walk and Easter Road, including the adjoining streets, between 10.45 and 11.30pm who may recognise the man from this description to come forward immediately.
“We have been linking in closely with Mr Ciania’s family in ruralPolandand they are understandably absolutely devastated by his death. They have lost a much loved son and brother and we are determined to find the person responsible to allow them some resolution.
“Mr Ciania was also known as ‘MC’, and we are hoping that this may jog the memories of others who might not have otherwise come forward.
“Translation services are available for any witnesses who require it, and we can provide Polish speaking officers if preferable.”
Anyone with any information is asked to contact Lothian and Border Police on 0131 311 3131 or Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111 in complete confidence.
