Over 100 antisocial behaviour incidents reported around Edinburgh’s buses and trams since mid-February as police continue Easter patrols

More than 100 antisocial behaviour incidents around Edinburgh’s buses and trams - including youths throwing stones - have been reported to police since the middle of February.

Two bus drivers were injured during that period and a number of services have been temporarily suspended as a result. On March 17, Lothian Buses withdrew all evening services across the city after eight buses serving the Edinburgh Royal Infirmary were targeted by vandals in the Old Dalkeith Road or Gilmerton Road areas.

Police have now confirmed that they will continue community patrols throughout the Easter holidays and will aim to work with young people and parents to deter antisocial behaviour.

The 100 incidents reported since mid-February include youths throwing stones at buses, cars and trams and tampering with the emergency stop button, holding onto the bus while in motion and damaging bus property.

Police Scotland and Lothian Buses are working together as part of Operation Proust to deter antisocial behaviour, following an upsurge in incidents across Edinburgh in recent months.

Since late February, 25 youths have been identified and reported to the relevant authorities, some for multiple offences. Enquiries are ongoing into several incidents across the city as part of Operation Proust.

Chief Inspector Sarah Taylor said: “Public transport is an absolutely essential service, and it has been shocking to see the level of disrespect and criminality directed towards providers recently.

“This deplorable behaviour will not be tolerated and our officers will be continuing their work within our communities to ensure services can operate safely.

“There has also been a significant focus on engaging with young people and educating them on the harm this activity is causing, and over the past month, officers have spoken to more than 500 youths while out on patrol.

“Parents and guardians play a key role in addressing these issues, and I would urge them to speak to their children about the dangers associated with throwing objects at vehicles, as well as making sure they know where they are and what they are doing.”

Chief Insp Taylor is encouraging anyone who witnesses an incident to contact police immediately through 101, or Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.

Sarah Boyd, operations director at Lothian Buses, said: “Lothian take pride in serving at the heart of our local communities and we are fully committed to providing travel for key workers and those who require essential travel.”

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