Double robbery in Leith

Six flatmates are trying to pick up the pieces after being held at knife-point in their home in Leith.

Two weeks ago, the flatmates were forced out of their beds and into a single room after two men forced entry into the Salamander Court flat.

After being physically assaulted, one flatmate was able to escape through a window and alert the police. The thieves escaped with laptops, money and mobile phones before officers arrived on the scene.

Within two hours of the raid, a newsagent was held at knifepoint on Leith Walk in an unrelated incident. A three figure sum of cash was handed to a man described as being in his mid 30s; about 5ft 10in, of slim build, with a tanned and unshaven complexion and dark hair.

Residents of Leith voiced concern over the surge in knife crime. A resident who wished to remain anonymous said: “There is a real change taking place in Leith, there’s been lots of investment lately in the area. People were beginning to feel safe. This just shows that there’s still a long way to go before Leith loses its reputation.”

The suspects for the flat robbery, who are still on the loose, are said to be white and in their mid 20s. One is described as 5ft 9in, of slim build, with short dark hair, wearing a dark or grey-coloured top and jeans. The other; 5ft 10in, of stocky build, with lighter coloured hair, and wearing grey jogging bottoms and a grey top.

A Lothian and Borders Police spokesman said: "Although no one was seriously injured, this will have been a terrifying ordeal for everyone involved.

"We are appealing for anyone who may have information regarding this incident to come forward. We would also like to hear from anyone who may have been in the area at the time and who may have seen the two men, one of whom would have been carrying a laptop computer."