Police Appeal After 'Terrifying' Robbery For Private Hire Driver in Leith
Police in Edinburgh are appealing for witnesses after a private hire driver was robbed in Leith. The incident happened around 11.30pm yesterday in Ballantyne Road. A 45-year-old man was parked at the bottom of the street at the junction with The Quilts when two men approached his vehicle. At this time one of the men opened the driver-side door and was seen to be in possession of a knife. The other entered the passenger seat holding a screwdriver and began searching through the glove box. The victim was able to escape and sought assistance from a resident within one of the properties at The Quilts. When he returned to his vehicle he found that his electronic personal data assistant had been stolen from the cradle on the front windscreen. Inquiries are now ongoing to trace the men responsible and anyone who can assist with this investigation is asked to come forward. The first suspect is described as white, between 19 and 25-years-old, 5ft 9ins tall with a slim build. He was wearing a dark hooded top with a darker-coloured hood and spoke with a local accident. The second suspect is described as white, late teens, 5ft 6ins tall with a slim build. He was wearing a grey hooded top and bottoms. Detective Constable Chris Harding said: “This was a terrifying experience for the private hire driver and we believe the suspects may have called in the fare with the intention of carrying out this robbery. “We are keen to speak to anyone who remembers seeing any suspicious activity in or around Ballantyne Road late on Sunday evening or who recognises the description of these men. “In addition, anyone with any further information relevant to this inquiry should also contact police immediately.” Those with information can contact Police Scotland on 101 or alternatively, the charity Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.