Police searching for two men after elderly man attacked and robbed in stairwell

POLICE are investigating after two men assaulted and robbed an 81-year-old pensioner in his stairwell on Dalry Road.

The duo targeted the elderly man, who walks with a zimmer frame, at a common stair near to West Park Place at around 4.25pm on Saturday.

Once inside the door they demanded money and pushed him against a wall, before robbing him and running off.

The victim was not injured in the incident.

Enquiries are now ongoing to trace the two men responsible and officers are viewing CCTV as well as visiting local shops and homes in the area to gather information

Officers are keen to speak to witnesses who saw anyone acting suspiciously in the area prior to 4.25pm or immediatelty after.

The first suspect is described as a white male in his mid-20’s, around 5ft 9ins tall, who speaks with a local accent.

At the time of the incident he was wearing an orange or yellow coloured jumper or tracksuit top and jeans.

The second suspect is described as being a white male, also in his mid-20’s, around 5ft 9ins tall with short dark hair.

Detective Sergeant Stuart Blair from Lothian and Borders Police said: “Thankfully the victim was not hurt during this incident however this was an utterly despicable crime committed by two men who took advantage of an older person with mobility issues.

“We want to catch those responsible as soon as possible and believe the public might hold the key in helping us find these criminals.”

“The incident took place during the day when the area would have been busy with shoppers, and I would appeal to anyone who was in the area and who may have any information to come forward as soon as possible.”

Anyone with any information is asked to contact Lothian and Borders Police immediately on 0131 311 3131 or Crimestoppers in complete confidence on 0800 555 111.