| The remarks came after a 45-year-old woman was left severely shaken, having being confronted by a knife-wielding thug at her flat in Whitfield Avenue at 8.10am yesterday.
The woman was robbed of her handbag and mobile phone after unwittingly letting her attacker into her block after answering the security buzzer.
Detective Constable Graeme Wishart today said inquiries were ongoing and appealed for anyone with information to come forward.
The suspect is described as about 20 years old, 5ft 7in and of slim build.
He was wearing a white hooded top with the hood up and a yellow and green tartan scarf which hid his face
DC Wishart said, “We are continuing inquiries along the lines of forensic (examinations), house-to-house, trying to trace witnesses and CCTV. The flat was forensically examined and we are waiting for the results of the analysis.”
He continued, “At that time of the morning, it was broad daylight and there would have been pedestrians and vehicles going about in the area who may have seen the suspect loitering about before or after the incident.
“We are very keen to speak to anyone with information.”
The robbery was today roundly condemned by the three North East councillors who represent the area, but all said the incident was not indicative of life in Whitfield.
SNP Councillor Andrew Dawson said, “It is the most despicable type of crime I can think of by somebody probably desperate for money for drink or drugs.
“I feel when these people are caught they don’t hit them hard enough — they should use the full force of the law and lock these people up.
“I hope this lady gets over it fairly quickly, but it is going to be with her for a while. Every time there is a knock at that lady’s door it will be difficult for her to answer it.
“We don’t get a lot of reports of incidents like this from Whitfield though, and I would not want people starting to hide behind their doors. It certainly won’t keep me from wandering about Whitfield or Fintry.”
Labour representative Brian Gordon was similarly defiant.
He said, “I am very disappointed (this has happened) as Whitfield over the last few years has been showing a positive image as far as that is concerned.
“Whitfield is no worse or better than any other scheme and to get something like that happening —especially so early in the morning — is disappointing.
“The people in Whitfield don’t see that type of thing happening — it is an isolated incident.”
SNP Councillor Willie Sawers added, “I condemn this armed assault on a defenceless person.
“I would urge anyone with information, however insignificant they think it might be, to approach the police in order the perpetrator can be caught as soon as possible.
“Incidents of this nature in Whitfield are thankfully few and far between and I would hope that the perpetrator is caught and brought to justice at an early stage.”
Anyone with information about the robbery should contact police on 0845 6005705, or speak to any officer. |
