Police investigate robbery of 87-year-old in Charlotte Square

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The incident occurred on Monday at around 4.30pm when a man approached the 87-year-old and offered to assist him.

The man then attempted to remove the wallet of the 87-year-old and was successful after a short struggle.

The South side of Charlotte Square Edinburgh. Pic Ian Rutherford

An onlooker who witnessed the incident chased the suspect and retrieved the wallet, however a three-figure-sum of money was removed.

Officers are now looking to trace the man responsible and are appealing to the public for information.

The suspect is described as white man with a tanned complexion. He is around 5ft 11” in height and has short dark hair.

He was wearing a black leather jacket, a green or grey round neck t-shirt and blue jeans.

Detective Inspector Grant Johnston said: “This was an appalling attack on an elderly gentleman, who was been left very distressed by this incident.

“We are eager to trace the man responsible. We would urge anyone who may have seen the man described, or who has any information which can help with our investigation, to contact either police or Crimestoppers as soon as possible.”

Those with information regarding this incident can contact Police Scotland on 101 or anonymously through Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.