Police investigate string of burglaries in Penicuik

Police in Midlothian are appealing for witnesses following a number of thefts from homes in Penicuik.

A handbag and cash was stolen sometime between 9.30pm on Monday 16th and 7.15am on Tuesday 17th July a house in Eskvale Crescent.

Then between 5am and 9am on Tuesday 17th July, two more addresses in Woodside Drive also had items including handbags, cash and a mobile phone stolen from within.

Officers are treating these incidents as linked and believed those responsible may also have been involved in two attempted break-ins to homes in Eskvale Crescent and Kirkhill Road overnight between Monday and Tuesday.

Anyone with information, or any private space CCTV that can help identify the suspects is asked to come forward.

Sergeant Michele Lindsay from Penicuik Police Station said:''Given the proximity and similar nature of these incidents, we believe the same individuals are responsible and so anyone who remembers seeing any suspicious activity in any of these areas during Monday evening or Tuesday morning should contact police immediately.

In addition, anyone with any information that can help us identify the culprits is also urged to get in touch.

Tackling acquisitive crime remains one of our top priorities within Midlothian and we would recommend that the public visit our website at www.scotland.police.uk to obtain a range of useful advice and guidance on safeguarding homes, businesses and vehicles from criminals.''

Anyone with information relating to these offences can contact Penicuik Police Station via 101 or make an anonymous report to the charity Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.