John Swinney has said he is “deeply concerned” by reports of violence around Edinburgh, which are thought to be linked to a gang feud.
Last week, shots were fired at properties in Niddrie Marischal Crescent and West Pilton Bank, while there have also been fires at commercial premises in Edinburgh and Musselburgh.
Reports have suggested the incidents are linked to a feud between two groups.
On Thursday, Alba MSP Ash Regan (Edinburgh Eastern) questioned Swinney about what his government is doing to support emergency services and reassure people living in Edinburgh.
STV News“I’m deeply concerned by recent incidents in Edinburgh, and I’m fully supportive of Police Scotland’s efforts to apprehend those responsible,” Swinney replied.
“While it would be inappropriate to comment on the investigation itself, I can reassure members that significant resource is being put into the scrutiny of CCTV footage, door-to-door inquiries, and increased patrols are being deployed in the area.”
Swinney said the government is also pursuing a “range of other measures” to disrupt, deter and detect serious organised crime.
At the weekend, Police Scotland said a “major investigation” into the incidents is ongoing.
They said it is believed the offences are linked to “groups who are actively targeting each other” in the Scottish capital.
The First Minister encouraged anyone with information about the incidents in Niddrie and West Pilton to report directly to Police Scotland.
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