05-07-2025
Edinburgh Princes Street Gardens cafe targeted by 'youth gang' for third time in a week
An Edinburgh Princes Street cafe has been targeted by a gang of youths for the third time in a week after nearby business owners warned they are 'under siege' from feral groups.
Last weekend a firework was let off near customers at Sir Walter's Cafe in the Gardens, exploding near women and young children. Just days later, two female youths were captured breaking open a shutter and raiding the cafe.
Paulius Bernotas, who owns the business in Princes Street Gardens, raised concerns over an increase in antisocial behaviour from large groups of youths in the area and called on police to carry out regular patrols to deter further offending.
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On Thursday, July 3, several male youths appeared to approach the cafe shortly before midnight and attempted to prize open the same shutter before turning the camera away from them.
According to Paulius, more damage was dealt to the unit, but nothing appears to have been taken.
Two hooded male youths can be seen approaching the cafe and attempting to pull open the wooden shutter before two females join them. In the background, people can be seen walking along Princes Street, looking towards the group.
A hand is then visible as the camera is moved away from them while they allegedly broke the doors open.
After being approached about a rise in youth-related incidents within Princes Street Gardens, Sergeant Robert Richardson said officers are currently running a dedicated initiative which involves high-visibility patrols specifically targeting antisocial behaviour on Princes Street and the surrounding area.
Paulius previously told how groups regularly make their way around Princes Street Gardens with speakers during the day and approach his cafe and seating area in the afternoon.
Despite being asked to leave by staff, groups continue to 'look for a reaction' and vandalise his cafe. The raid on the unit earlier this week left Paulius with a bill of around £2,000 to repair damage caused to the shutter and a fridge.
Sergeant Robert Richardson said: "We understand the impact anti-social behaviour and disorder has on the local community, and I would like to thank locals who continue to bring these incidents to our attention. I would reassure them that everything possible is being done to reduce anti-social behaviour in our area.
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'Officers are currently running a dedicated initiative named Operation Verbeia, which involves increased high-visibility patrols specifically targeting anti-social behaviour in the Princes Street area and its surroundings.
"We take reports of such instances very seriously and I would urge anyone who comes across disorder to contact police. Anti-social behaviour and criminal acts will not be tolerated and those found to be committing these offences will be dealt with appropriately.
'Anyone with any concerns is encouraged to report incidents to police on 101 or anonymously via Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.'
