Three women charged over Edinburgh city centre pickpocketing offences and stealing from a handbag in Cowgate bar

Police officers in plain clothes are being deployed as part of the clampdown.

Three women have been charged in connection with pickpocketing offences in Edinburgh city centre and stealing from a handbag in a Cowgate bar.

Officers spotted two women acting suspiciously on Upper Bow on Thursday and they were arrested for attempted theft.

Police said both women were due to appear in court on Friday (today).

Three women have been charged.

And in the early hours of this morning (Fri Dec 13th) a third woman was arrested after CCTV captured a woman stealing from a customer's bag.

Inspector Trish Robertson, from the West End Police Station, said: "We are committed to ensuring that Edinburgh is a safe place to be, particularly at this time of year with the Christmas Market in full swing and people out shopping and celebrating.

"We have officers on patrol in uniform and in plain clothes, and one of our main focuses is acquisitive crime such as pickpocketing and thefts. Thankfully, due to the vigilance of the officers and staff involved in these incidents, three people have been arrested and charged.

"I'd like to remind everyone shopping or visiting the city centre to look after your belongings. Keep all of your bags and valuables safe and with you at all times. If you see anyone acting suspiciously, please report it. Keep your purses and wallets in a zipped inside pocket wherever possible and make sure any bags are closed and are in sight at all times.

"Anyone with information regarding such offences are asked to contact Police Scotland on 101, or anonymously through Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111."