POLICE have issued a statement regarding a major investigation into an ongoing “gang war” in Edinburgh.
A team of detectives, along with specialist and divisional officers, have been working on the investigation following a second “shooting” in the capital this week.
Officers were called to a property in West Pilton Bank in the city on Friday after a firearm was reportedly discharged.
It followed another incident on Thursday where emergency services were called to Niddrie Marischal Crescent after similar reports.
Police have said in a statement that significant CCTV footage has now been collected which is being scrutinised and officers are continuing to gather additional information by conducting door-to-door enquiries.
On Saturday afternoon, officers conducted road and vehicle checks in the Ferry Road, Niddrie and Pennywell areas.
Police confirmed these road checks will continue as part of the ongoing investigation.
A report of a suspicious fire in Hay Drive on Sunday, March 23, is now also being investigated, police said.
Superintendent Paul Gillespie said: “We understand this will be concerning for local communities, but I want to reassure everyone that we are pursuing those involved and are using every tool and tactic at our disposal.
“We are taking strong action to disrupt this criminal activity and a lot of work, which may not always be visible, is ongoing. Additional officers are currently deployed to specifically target criminals and disrupt their activities.
“Extensive enquiries are ongoing into a number of incidents in Edinburgh. From our investigations so far, we believe these are linked to groups who are actively targeting each other.
“The local division and senior management are being provided with support from our national Specialist Crime Division and Operational Support Division.
"We are carrying out additional high-visibility patrols and I would encourage anyone with any concerns to approach these officers.
“We understand the significant impact this has had on the local community and I would like to thank everyone for their help so far.
“Finding those who carried out these reckless acts is paramount. If you know anything that could help, please do the right thing and speak to the police.”
Anyone with information is asked to contact Police Scotland via 101 quoting incident number 0562 of Friday, 21 March, 2025. Alternatively, you can call Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111 where information can be given anonymously.
