Police officer stabbed in college campus incident

Edinburgh: Man detained after constable suffers minor injury

A police officer has been stabbed in an incident at a college campus.

The man was stabbed in the back after being called to Edinburgh College in the Granton area of the city yesterday morning.

The officer, a constable with Police Scotland, was taken by ambulance to Edinburgh Royal Infirmary for treatment to a minor, nonlife-threatening injury.

The incident happened at around 9.30am after police responded to reports of an individual allegedly threatening to harm himself and others.

A man has been detained in connection with the incident, which is being treated as isolated.

The Scottish Police Federation (SPF), which represents rank-and-file officers, wished the injured PC well as it raised questions about officers being properly equipped to deal with such incidents.

SPF chairwoman Andrea Macdonald said: “I would like to commend the bravery of all of the police officers who attended this incident – undoubtedly their actions in protecting the public prevented further injuries or even fatalities.

“However – whilst all details are still to emerge – once again it appears that we have Scottish police officers not suitably equipped to deal with an incident where an individual is armed.

“Our thoughts are with the police officer who was injured and his family and colleagues at this time.”

Police Scotland have been contacted for a response to the SPF’S comments.

By late morning, two police cars could be seen outside the main entrance of the further education college, while six police vehicles were at the back of the building.

Police Scotland confirmed the officer has been assessed as having a minor injury.

Edinburgh College said it is assisting police with their inquiries.

In a statement posted on Twitter, it said: “The safety of our students and staff is our most important consideration and we have worked with officers to ensure they are safe and well.”

The college remained open yesterday in line with guidance from police.

Picture: PA. A line of police vehicles outside Edinburgh College in Granton after an officer was stabbed.