Extra officers on patrol in centre of Edinburgh tonight to combat anti-social behaviour

Edinburgh Police has announced extra officers will be on patrol tonight including colleagues from British Transport Police to deal with anti-social behaviour near Waverley Mall and Princes Street.

Extra officers will be on patrol following local community complaints of anti-social behaviour.

The police have said that the move comes is in response to concerns raised by the local community about young people coming into the city drinking and congregating in groups leading to anti-social behaviour.

The patrol will be monitoring areas in and around Waverley Mall and also along Princes Street where trouble has been reported.

Sergeant David Duthie, from Edinburgh's West End Community Policing Team, said: "We are committed to responding to any concerns raised by our local community and, as such, our officers will be carrying out extra patrols around the city centre this evening.

"While the vast majority of people who live in and around the capital have taken personal responsibility and adhered to the current government guidelines, in recent weeks, we have received a number of reports of young people coming into the city, drinking and congregating in groups, which has led to a rise in anti-social behaviour.

"Our policing approach will continue to see officers engage with the public, explain the legislation and guidance, and encourage compliance, using enforcement only as a last resort."

Police are urging members of the public to remember the Scottish Government guidelines in relation to congregating in groups.

Edinburgh Police tweeted that if anyone sees them out and about, to give them a wave. They tweeted: “If you see us, give us a wave.”

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