Seven held following domestic abuse crackdown in Aberdeen

Seven people have been arrested during a police crackdown on the “cowardly” crime of domestic violence.

A team of 12 extra officers helped local police as they carried out high-visibility patrols in Aberdeen on Friday to target those involved in domestic abuse and alcohol-related violence.

Police Scotland said a 26-year-old man from the Torry area was arrested in relation to domestic assault, while two men, aged 48 and 42, were arrested in connection with domestic assaults in the city centre.

A 37-year-old man from the Rosemount area was arrested in connection with a domestic assault, and a 51-year-old man was held over alleged stalking offences in Mastrick.

A 39-year-old man was arrested in connection with theft and abusive behaviour in the Hilton area.

Officers also carried out checks to ensure that those who were the subject of court orders were complying with relevant bail conditions.

As a result, a 40-year-old man from the Torry area was arrested in relation to breaching domestic-related bail conditions.

Pc Emma Wright, of the Alcohol and Violence Reduction Unit, said: “Suffering behind closed doors should not and cannot be ignored. We’re working hard to robustly deal with offenders as well as protecting victims.

“No-one should suffer in silence. If you are involved in an abusive relationship, please speak out as there are a range of support services available to you from the police and a raft of other agencies.

“We have specially trained and experienced officers who can offer practical advice and support in all aspects of domestic abuse.”

The operation is part of Police Scotland’s Campaign Against Violence (CAV), which has so far seen more than 200 people arrested or charged in connection with a range of issues, including anti-social behaviour, drugs offences and alcohol-related violent crime.

Inspector Murray Main said: “Domestic violence is a cowardly crime that no-one should have to suffer. We are committed to tackling all forms of domestic abuse – it is appalling, cowardly and completely unacceptable in society.

“We will proactively identify and arrest offenders and continue to monitor their compliance with any bail conditions or home curfews after they’ve been to court.

“Tackling violence represents a challenge for every community across the city. Effective long-term reductions will only occur if people look out for each other, and we work together, share information about those who may be suffering or are vulnerable, and develop new options to prevent, enforce and change attitudes.”