POLICE Scotland has publicly announced its measures to keep people safe in Edinburgh during the festive period.
Posting to social media on Friday, the force launched the return of an annual safety campaign and raised awareness of the presence of specially trained officers.
Both aim to reassure and protect the public and reduce criminal activity.
Operation Winter City launched on 15 December and runs until 5 January and sees officers providing high-visibility police patrols throughout the city centre.
Local teams will be supported by colleagues from nearby divisions, with specialist resources and assistance available if necessary.
A video shared to social media shows Chief Inspector Craig Rogerson addressing the public: “Edinburgh is a special place to be during Christmas time, with lots of different attractions and events taking place.
“We’ll have officers out on patrol providing a high-visibility presence to engage with the public.
“And we’re working with partners to offer reassurance and respond to any incidents that may arise.”
He goes on to share basic safety tips to help reduce criminal activity, such as keeping hold of purchases and staying in a group and planning travel for nights out.
He advises people to read the force’s crime prevention advice published on its website and social media channels.
A second post acknowledges Project Servator, a policing tactic aimed at reassuring the public by targeting criminal activity, including terrorism, used during COP26 in Glasgow.
Specialist officers were out engaging with the public and security staff at the city’s Christmas markets, reminding them to stay vigilant and report suspicious activity.
The force advised that deployments may occur at any time and involve specially trained uniformed and plain clothed officers and a wide range of resources.
Members of the public are not to be concerned, as they are a normal part of police procedure.
A picture shared with the post shows a uniformed officer speaking to a man in St Andrew Square.
An information board reads: “We can’t be everywhere. But we could be anywhere. Plain clothed officers operate in this area to help keep you safe.”
Speaking in a press release, Chief Inspector Craig Rogerson, Gold Commander for Operation Winter City, said: “The festive period is always an exciting time in Edinburgh and the city centre is buzzing with locals and visitors Christmas shopping, socialising, and enjoying the events that are taking place over the coming weeks.
“We will have increased high-visibility patrols throughout the city centre and officers will be on hand to provide the public with any assistance they require.
“There are simple steps we can all take to stay safe during the festive period. Looking after your personal belongings when you’re in town, planning your transportation for nights out in advance, drinking responsibly and ensuring your home and any outbuildings are appropriately secured, will help prevent you from falling victim to crime, or coming into contact with the emergency services for any reason.
“Crime prevention and personal safety advice is available on our website and will be provided on our social media channels throughout Operation Winter City.
“On behalf of everyone at Edinburgh Division, have a wonderful and safe Christmas and New Year.
