POLICE are investigating the “horrific and violent” murder of a man at a flat in Edinburgh.
The body of the victim, who is believed to be in his 30s, was discovered at a property in Dickson Street, Leith, yesterday (Sat).
Detective Superintendent Allan Jones, who is leading the investigation, said the body was discovered on Saturday morning when occupants of the rented accommodation returned.
He said the time of death had not been established but they were concentrating on Thursday morning until the time of discovery of Saturday.
He said: “The area is a fairly busy residential area. The actual flat is a main door flat. It is rented accommodation with multiple occupancy. We are interested in the comings and goings over the past week and even before that.
“It is still pretty early to say when the death occurred. It is more likely to be since Thursday morning and the time of discovery.
“It was discovered by some of the occupants returning after having been absent and they discovered the body within and immediately called police.”
Asked if the dead man appeared to have lived there, he replied: “The body was not readily identifiable.”
He said police at this stage had an “inkling” as to the man’s identity but had not yet been able to trace family members.
Det Supt Jones said it had been a “horrific and violent attack” but declined to go in to the nature of the victim’s injuries.
Asked if the public should be concerned for their safety, Det Supt Jones said: “It’s clearly a violent attack within a private dwelling. We can’t remove the potential there is a risk.”
But Det Supt Jones added there had been a “significant influx” of police in to the area to reassure the community.
He said: “We are following a number of positive lines of enquiry.
“I would appeal to anyone who may have any information, no matter how insignificant it may seem, to come forward to us immediately.
Anyone with any information is asked to contact Lothian and Borders Police immediately on 0131 311 3131. Alternatively, they an contact Crimestoppers in complete confidence on 0800 555 111.
