Edinburgh launches winter safety operation for festive period

Summarised from 2 outlets · Updated 14 Nov, 13:01 · Archive

Police in Edinburgh have launched Operation Winter City to provide high-visibility patrols in the city centre from mid-November to early January.

Police in Edinburgh have launched Operation Winter City, their annual campaign to keep the public safe over the festive period. The operation began on 14 November and will run until 3 January 2027.

The campaign will provide high-visibility policing in key areas to deter crime and respond to incidents. Dedicated foot patrols will be undertaken in areas including the Christmas Market, Princes Street, George Street, the High Street and Royal Mile, as well as Waverley Mall and St James Quarter. Retail premises will be regularly visited to offer advice on safeguarding stores.

Local officers will be supported by a new City Centre Policing Unit, the Retail Crime Taskforce, CID and Road Policing colleagues from neighbouring divisions. Project Servator deployments will also take place, a policing tactic using specially trained officers to spot signs of criminal activity and provide reassuring presence through unpredictable, highly visible deployments.

Inspector Stephen Quinn said officers would be 'on hand to support the public with whatever is required' during the busy festive period.

How it is being reported

• Edinburgh city centre to have 'high-visibility' police presence during festive periodThe new City Centre Policing Unit will support local officers this year.Edinburgh Live · 14 Nov, 12:23
• Police launch annual operation to keep Edinburgh safe this winter with ‘visible presence’ plannedInspector Stephen Quinn said that “officers [will be] on hand to support the public with whatever is required” during the busy festive periodEdinburgh Evening News · 14 Nov, 11:45

In this story: Edinburgh · Stephen Quinn · Police Scotland

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