Lothians and Borders police expect Christmas and New Year to be ‘extremely busy’ despite Covid restrictions as festive campaign launched
Officers will be in place throughout West Lothian, East Lothian, Midlothian and Borders to offer people crime prevention advice and to deter crime and police chiefs are urging people to be vigilant for signs of “unexplained wealth.”
Police Scotland’s Made From Crime campaign will also be promoted throughout the festive season to encourage people to spot the tell-tale signs of criminal activity in their communities and report any suspicions to police or Crimestoppers. Social media channels will be used to highlight safety messaging.
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Hide AdChief Superintendent John McKenzie, divisional commander for the Lothians and Scottish Borders, said: “We appreciate this has been an extremely challenging year for many members of our communities and we are committed to ensuring your Christmas and New Year help end 2020 on a positive note.
“My officers throughout the division will be in place to respond to any incidents, which may arise, and will also be out and about in their local areas to engage directly with the public and businesses in order to provide crime prevention advice and personal safety information."
Detective Chief Inspector Bryan Burns from Lothians and Scottish Borders CID, said: “Criminals don’t take a break at Christmas and so neither can we. Our efforts in tackling serious and organised crime are a year-round commitment, but we are using the festive period to raise awareness among the public as to how criminals profit from crime and what to look out for.
“Our communities have worked hard all year, and in very difficult circumstances, to provide for themselves and their families, as well as buying Christmas gifts.
“Criminals, however, have made their lifestyle and earnings through profiting from the misery of others and that is something we cannot and will not tolerate.
“We know that the public do not want organised crime taking place in their area and you can assist us in stopping this activity and bringing offenders to justice, by being vigilant for signs of unexplained wealth and reporting your concerns to us via 101. Alternatively, you can make an anonymous report to the charity Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.”