Police step up fight against drink violence

POLICE are set to use metal detectors in clubs and pubs as part of a new campaign to tackle alcohol-related violence.

The Boozed Up – Squared Up – Locked Up initiative, which was launched yesterday and runs to 9 July, will also see officers increase patrols and the use of mobile CCTV vans.

Chief Superintendent Colin Campbell, of the safer communities department, said: "As a force, we continue to emphasise crime prevention, combining research and resources to target the causes of crime with maximum efficiency.

"Analysis undertaken by Lothian and Borders Police shows alcohol-related assaults traditionally rise in the summer months, with the lighter, warmer nights encouraging people to drink more. In addition, it shows that most violent incidents are spur-of-the-moment.

"These are the facts, and we want to bring them to the public's attention. People are responsible for their own behaviour, and alcohol is neither an excuse nor a justification for violence."