HERE is a round-up of the latest news from police incidents across Edinburgh and the Lothians as of Monday, 23 December.
CCTV appeal to trace man following incident in Calder Road area on Bonfire Night
Police Scotland have released a CCTV image of a man that officers believe may be able to assist with enquiries into incidents on Bonfire Night on Tuesday, 5 November.
The male was seen in the Calder Road area of Edinburgh and is described as white, between 18 and 20 years old, around 5ft 6ins tall and with a stocky build.
The young man was seen wearng a black hooded top, a thick black gilet, black gloves, black trousers, black trainers with white soles and a small, black, cross-body satchel.
Detective sergeant Steven Dick said: “We are keen to talk to this male as we believe he may have information which could assist with our enquiries.
“The male pictured, or anyone who may recognise him, is asked to please contact us.”
Anyone with any information is asked to contact 101 quoting Calder Road incident dated 5 November, 2024.
Alternatively, Crimestoppers can be contacted anonymously on 0800 555 111.
Man receives nine-year sentence for setting fire to front doors in Midlothian
A man has been sentenced at the High Court in Edinburgh for a string of offences committed in Midlothian.
Josh Neil was jailed for nine years on Friday for offences including causing fear and alarm by setting fire to front doors in Penicuik in November 2022, as well as disorder offences.
The 25-year-old pleaded guilty at Glasgow Sheriff Court on Tuesday, 19 November 2024.
Detective sergeant Narelle Allan said: “Josh Neil will now face the consequences of his despicable actions.
“I hope his conviction and sentencing will bring justice to all involved, who have shown great strength in reporting what happened to them.”
Duo arrested and charged in connection with car thefts across Scotland
Two men have been arrested and charged in connection with a number of keyless car thefts across Scotland.
The incidents happened between 1 November and 28 November, 2024, when six cars were reported stolen in Wishaw, Uddingston, Stirling, Bathgate and Edinburgh.
Officers carried out enquiries and on Friday, 6 December, a 35-year-old man was arrested and charged in connection with these thefts, before subsequently appearing at Hamilton Sheriff Court on Thursday, 19 December.
On Saturday, 21 December, 2024, a 36-year-old man was then arrested and charged in connection with two of the thefts and driving whilst disqualified.
He is expected to appear at Hamilton Sheriff Court today.
Sergeant Steven Brown said: “We urge all vehicle owners to be aware and take extra precautions to combat this type of criminal activity including not keeping keys or fobs near doors or windows.
“Buying a secure signal blocking pouch, such as a Faraday bag or RFID signal blocker that can block the transmission of the signal from the key, can also help keep your vehicle secure.
“Steering locks can also be effective, while vehicle trackers and tracking devices are also a form of additional security and can assist police in recovering stolen vehicles quickly.
“Anyone with information about these thefts should contact officers via 101 or call Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.”
Appeal for information after teen stabbed in Edinburgh
Police are appealing for information following the serious assault of a teenager in Edinburgh.
Around 9pm yesterday (22 December), police received a report that a 16-year-old male was stabbed in Stenhouse Avenue West, after being chased by a group of males.
Emergency services attended and the male was taken to hospital where he remains.
Officers have been carrying out door-to-door enquiries and are gathering relevant CCTV footage from in and around the area.
Detective Sergeant Kim Tennant said: “The motive for this attack is unknown and it’s imperative we trace those responsible.
“We have been made aware of potential footage of this incident circulating online. If anyone has seen this footage, please get in touch.
“If you have doorbell recording equipment or dash cams, please check the footage as it could have captured vital images which could assist us in identifying those responsible for this attack.”
Anyone with information is asked to call Police Scotland via 101, quoting incident number 3168 of Sunday 22 December, 2024.
Alternatively, please call Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111 where information can be given anonymously.
