Seven people have been arrested in an organised crime sting after a spate of violent incidents across Scotland.
Nine properties across Edinburgh and the Lothians were raided in a pre-planned operation involving officers from organised crime and counter terrorism divisions on Tuesday.
Police charged five men and a 16-year-old male youth in connection with a series of attempted murders.
Three of the men - aged 32, 30 and 23 - were charged in connection with six prison officers' cars allegedly being torched in the car park of Addiewell HMP on Saturday, January 7.
A source at the time told the Record: "A number of cars were set on fire last night at Addiewell Prison and two cars had their windows smashed in.
"All of the cars belonged to prison officers who were doing the night shift."
Four men, aged 32, 30, 23 and 23 - along with a 16-year-old male - were arrested in connection with the attempted murder of a 28-year-old man in West Pilton Terrace, around 10.10pm on Thursday, January 5.
It is alleged the victim was attacked with machetes by a group who reportedly tried to chop off his hands and legs while holding him down. The victim is thought to have suffered life changing injuries.
Two days later a blue Ford Focus ST and a dark coloured VW Golf were found burnt out on January 7. Underworld sources claimed the alleged incident was the result of a new gang war in the capital.
One man, aged 32, and two men, aged 30, were arrested and charged in connection with the attempted murder of a 39-year-old man in Eskbank Road, Dalkeith, around 9.45pm on Thursday, December 29, 2022.
The trio allegedly followed the victim in his car before smashing into the plush Mercedes and carrying out a brutal attack that left the man in hospital.
While four men, 30, 32, 23 and 23 - and a 16-year-old male youth - were arrested and charged in connection with a further attempted murder on Monday, January, 23.
Emergency services rushed to Ferniehill Drive, Edinburgh, around 2.20am after a 30-year-old man was allegedly stabbed and rushed to Edinburgh Royal Infirmary.
All of those charged will appear at Edinburgh Sheriff Court on Wednesday, March 15. A report has been submitted to the Procurator Fiscal.
Detective Chief Inspector Mark Petrie, Organised Crime and Counter Terrorism, said: “Today demonstrates our commitment to tackling violence in our communities and apprehending those involved.
“This day of action has been the culmination of extensive investigatory work over a number of months.
“Throughout the investigation we have utilised detectives and specialists from across Police Scotland and we will continue to do so as our enquiries remain ongoing.”
Superintendent Mark Rennie, who is responsible for operational policing within Edinburgh, said: “These arrests reinforce our determination to target those involved in violence and organised crime.
“I want to reassure the public that we will continue to use every tool and tactic at our disposal to relentlessly pursue individuals who engage in violence within this city.
“I would encourage members of the public with information, or any concerns, to come forward so we can take action.
“Anyone with any information is asked to contact Police Scotland on 101. Alternatively, please call Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111, where information can be given anonymously."
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