Reports of pickpocketing in Edinburgh city centre lead to warning from police
Incidents reported in vicinity of Edinburgh city centre shopping mall
People are being warned to stay vigilant in Edinburgh city centre after reports of pickpocketing there yesterday.
Officers are carrying out enquiries following a number of pickpocketing incidents reported around the St James Quarter.
At 5.50pm on Wednesday, July 22, police received a report of a bag and a phone being taken from a 12-year-old girl near the St James Quarter area.
On the same evening, at around 11pm, a 30-year-old man reported his phone being stolen from his pocket. This incident also happened near St James Quarter.
Enquiries are being carried out to trace those responsible for the thefts and officers are appealing to the public for any information which may assist.
Inspector Stephen Quinn said: “Edinburgh is very busy at this time of year and pickpocketing is an issue we take extremely seriously. We would ask anyone who may have information on any of these incidents, to please contact police.
“I would also ask the public to remain vigilant whilst they are visiting and to keep their personal belongings safe and not to have money visible. Purses, wallets, handbags and rucksacks can all be targets, along with mobile phones.
“Anyone with information regarding pickpocketing activity is asked to contact Police Scotland on 101, or anonymously through Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.”