Girl, 15, sexually assaulted on busy Edinburgh street by man wearing black balaclava

The National

4 days ago

Police Scotland have said the girl was approached by a man in a bus stop by Marks and Spencer on Princes Street at around 5am. He then took her on foot to York Place where the incident happened shortly after 5am in a basement storage area on the street.
After the assault, the suspect left the area in the direction of Dublin Street.
The suspect is described as a white man with blond stubble/beard who spoke with a Scottish accent. He was wearing a black zip up hooded top, khaki green trousers, and Nike trainers. He wore a black balaclava.
CCTV from Edinburgh's New Town is being gathered, police say
Detective inspector Mhairi Cooper from the Public Protection Unit in Edinburgh said: 'This was a frightening incident for the girl and we have specialist officers supporting her and her family.
'From extensive enquiries within Edinburgh City Centre, we know the suspect approached her on Princes Street and then led her onto South St David Street, around St Andrew Square, onto Queen Street, then to York Place.
'Despite the early morning there was daylight in this busy commercial area. I am asking people who were within the area at the time and could have seen the suspect alone or with the victim, to come forward.
'CCTV from the New Town area is being gathered and checked – I would ask anyone with private systems to check these and submit anything of relevance to us as soon as possible.
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'We continue to carry out door to door enquiries and I'd appeal to local residents and businesses in New Town who may have premises off street level to check any storage areas or lock ups and report any suspicious items or behaviour to us.'
Chief inspector Brian Manchester, local area commander, added: 'We understand an incident such as this is concerning for the local community, and we have a dedicated enquiry team working on this investigation.
'Anyone with concerns should speak to officers without hesitation.'
Those with information should contact Police Scotland via 101 and quote incident number 0136 of 27 May 2025. An anonymous report can be made to Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.