Sex attack police seek Frankenstein revellers

Police are investigating a sex attack at Greyfriars Kirkyard.

Detectives have now issued a fresh appeal for information following the serious assault in Greyfriars Kirkyard on Thursday [January 21] evening

An extensive police inquiry has been launched and officers want to speak to anyone who was in the area of the Kirkyard or in the Frankenstein bar on George IV Bridge between 9.30pm and 10.30pm.

A further appeal is being made for any members of the public who saw a male and female leaving the Kirkyard at around 10.30pm to make themselves known.

Detective Inspector Tom Carty of the Specialist Crime Division based in Gartcosh, said: “We’re currently pursuing a number of lines of inquiry and as a result of this work, we’ve established that a group of males and females were within the bar prior to this attack.

“I want to hear from anyone who may have have been in the premises on Thursday evening to contact police.”

Officers have been combing the scene for evidence but have not yet revealed the age of the victim or a description of her attacker.

The sex attack came just days after the attempted robbery of a young woman in the Meadows by three teenage boys.

The incident happened at around 4pm on Monday in North Meadow Walk, at its junction with Meadow Lane.

The 20-year-old victim, who was walking in the area, noticed three men close to a path that leads to Buccleuch Place.

As she approached North Meadow Walk’s junction with Meadow Lane, one of the men repeatedly asked her for money and warned that he had a knife.

But she refused to hand over the cash and the three suspects then made off towards Hope Park Crescent.

The first was 5ft 1in, wearing a grey zipper and dark trousers, and had his top pulled up over his face.

The second was 5ft 2in, wearing dark clothing with his hair and face covered.

The third was 5ft 7in and also wearing dark clothing with his hair and face covered.

All three have been described as aged around 15 or 16 years old.

Detective Constable Kevin Walls, of Craigmillar police station, said: “This incident happened in daylight, so it’s possible that someone would have noticed the group of males standing together.

“At the time of the incident, a jogger ran nearby which caused the suspects to back off slightly, so we’re also appealing to that person who might have some information. The woman refused to give the suspects any money, but it was still a frightening experience.”

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