Police Scotland's organised crime unit arrest six men and one teenager in major operation around Edinburgh

Police have arrested seven people after warrants were executed at nine properties in Edinburgh and the surrounding area as part of a major operation.

The pre-planned operation, which followed a series of violent incidents and fire-raising, resulted in people being arrested in Edinburgh, East Lothian and Midlothian.

On Tuesday, March 14, divisional officers, supported by specialist resources from organised crime and counter terrorism, attended addresses in the Niddrie, Gracemount, and Craigmillar areas of Edinburgh, as well as Cockenzie and Gorebridge.

Five men – aged 23, 23, 30, 30, and 32 – and a 16-year-old male youth – have been charged in connection with a series of offences, a report has been submitted to the procurator fiscal and all will appear at Edinburgh Sheriff Court on Wednesday, March 15.

A 23-year-old man was released pending further enquiries. Detective chief inspector Mark Petrie, of the organised crime and counter terrorism unit, said: “Today demonstrates our commitment to tackling violence in our communities and apprehending those involved.

“This day of action has been the culmination of extensive investigatory work over a number of months.

“Throughout the investigation we have utilised detectives and specialists from across Police Scotland and we will continue to do so as our enquiries remain ongoing.”

Superintendent Mark Rennie, who is responsible for operational policing within Edinburgh, said: “These arrests reinforce our determination to target those involved in violence and organised crime.

“I want to reassure the public that we will continue to use every tool and tactic at our disposal to relentlessly pursue individuals who engage in violence within this city.

“I would encourage members of the public with information, or any concerns, to come forward so we can take action.

“Anyone with any information is asked to contact Police Scotland on 101. Alternatively, please call Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111, where information can be given anonymously.”