Detectives hunt 'tooled up men in black' after break-ins to four Lothian care homes in one day

Detectives are hunting four men responsible for break-ins to four Lothian care homes in one day.

Windows were smashed and offenders gained entry to the admin areas of Limecroft Residential Home, Livingston, and Archview Lodge Care Home in Dalkeith on Sunday. No one was injured at either of the locations.

Staff at a nursing home were also confronted by four men - all dressed in black with various tools - outside their building during an attempted break-in.

When the men were confronted outside Drummond Grange Nursing Home in Lasswade, three of them ran off and one of them threatened staff. No entry was gained and no-one was injured.

Another break-in was attempted at Pine Villa Nursing Home in Hawthorn Gardens, Loanhead. Again, nobody was injured.

Reviewing CCTV

Police believe the incidents are linked and are appealing to the public for help to catch those responsible.

Detective Inspector Ben Leathes said: "It’s imperative we trace the people responsible for these crimes. We will continue to review CCTV footage from the premises for any additional information which could assist our investigation.

"I would appeal to members of the public for any information regarding these incidents or anyone who has information on those responsible to please contact us."

A police spokeswoman said they have not received any report of items being stolen from any of the care homes.

Details on times of each break-in have not yet been provided by police.

Anyone with information should call CID officers at Dalkeith Police Station via 101. Alternatively, please call Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111 where information can be given anonymously.