Police step up festive presence

EXTRA police officers are set to patrol the city’s streets this weekend as part of a clampdown on festive violence and disorder.

Officers who usually carry out departmental roles are to be redeployed to bolster the frontline on one of the busiest weekends of the year.

They will target incidents including domestic assault and alcohol-related violence across Lothian and Borders.

Chief Superintendent Malcolm Graham, divisional commander for the City of Edinburgh, said the force was prepared.

He said: “As part of our ongoing effort to tackle all forms of violence in local communities, we are deploying substantial numbers of
additional officers this weekend.

“The extra officers will provide a visible presence on our streets, and will help police deal swiftly and decisively with incidents of violence.

“We are conscious that this is one of the busiest weekends of the year due to the numbers of revellers enjoying a night out with friends or colleagues before Christmas.

“We are well equipped to deal with incidents.”