Edinburgh police swoop on George Street as officers seen with 'shaken up' group

Police officers were seen swooping to a busy city centre street in Edinburgh on Wednesday evening.

At around 5.30pm, November 27, officers were spotted chatting to a group of distressed people. In images shared with Edinburgh Live, one police van across from All Bar One and near The Royal Society of Edinburgh building.

One local told Edinburgh Live how the group may have been tourists with an older couple appearing 'shaken up'.

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The passerby, 49, said: "There were two officers talking to a group of people on the corner. It's obviously a busy street at that time of day with commuters - particularly at this time of year with all the Christmas stuff. There was an older couple and a younger man. They might've been tourists as they were speaking in broken English.

"They looked bit shaken up and concerned so just hope everything's ok. The officers were taking notes as they spoke to them."

This comes as police in Edinburgh have launched their annual campaign to keep the public safe throughout the festive period. Between November 15, 2024 and January 5, 2025 and officers will provide high-visibility patrols to offer reassurance to the public who are visiting, or work within the city centre area.

Chief Inspector Craig Rogerson, Gold Commander for Operation Winter City, said: “The festive period is always an exciting time in Edinburgh and the city centre is buzzing with locals and visitors Christmas shopping, socialising, and enjoying the events that are taking place over the coming weeks.

“We will have increased high-visibility patrols throughout the city centre and officers will be on hand to provide the public with any assistance they require.

“There are simple steps we can all take to stay safe during the festive period. Looking after your personal belongings when you’re in town, planning your transportation for nights out in advance, drinking responsibly and ensuring your home and any outbuildings are appropriately secured, will help prevent you from falling victim to crime, or coming into contact with the emergency services for any reason.

“Crime prevention and personal safety advice is available on our website and will be provided on our social media channels throughout Operation Winter City.

“On behalf of everyone at Edinburgh Division, have a wonderful and safe Christmas and New Year.”