A Penicuik resident has been arrested and charged with multiple accounts of housebreaking throughout the region.

Officers traced the 39 year old man to an address in Penicuik on February 11, where he was arrested for undertaking four break-ins within the town, along with multiple other charges.

Appearing in Edinburgh Sheriff Court on February 12, the man was remanded in custody. Police Scotland say the man is now facing additional charges relating to “a large amount property found” at his address. This accumulation of property is believed to have been procured through further illegal activities.

Chief Inspector Kenny Simpson said:

This arrest was the product of some excellent enquiry work and will bring a degree of relief to the local community in Penicuik. This man has been actively comitting crimes within the Midlothian area and has caused much distress to the community. We are extremely pleased to see him finally brought to justice.

Anyone with further information should contact Police Scotland immediately on 101 or anonymously through Crimestoppers on 0800 555 11.

Penicuik has been subjected to multiple spates of housebreaking in recent months. Residents are reminded to keep doors, windows and outbuildings locked. Any suspicious behaviour should be reported to the Police immediately.