POLICE in Edinburgh have launched a new initiative today to reduce the number of robberies taking place on the streets of the Capital.
Operation Arable is intended to help prevent people falling victim to muggers, while at the same time targeting offenders who engage in robbery and associated crimes. Officers will be using a variety of tactics, including targeted and intelligence-led patrols, to keep residents and their valuables safe.
DCI Cunningham said: “Robbery remains a policing priority for Lothian and Borders Police. Not only can this type of crime have a devastating impact on the victim, it also heightens the fear of crime within local communities. Operation Arable sends a clear message that Lothian and Borders Police is committed to protecting our communities by bringing offenders to justice.
“At the same time, we want to minimise the risk of people becoming victims of robbery, and community officers will be working with our partners in the Council to distribute postcards and posters, with tips on how people can keep their valuables safe.”
A 39-year-old man has already been arrested in connection with an alleged assault and robbery that occurred in Blackford Road on January 30, and a similar incident that happened in St Peter’s Place a short time later.
DCI Cunningham added: “As ever, we rely on the public for information on criminals operating in local communities, and we are appealing for people to contact us with any information they have about criminals who have been involved in robberies that have taken place in their area. Rest assured that any information received will be acted on, and treated in the strictest confidence.”
Anyone with any information should contact Lothian and Borders Police on 0131 311 3131, or Crimestoppers in confidence and complete anonymity on 0800 555 111.
