The tragic death of 35-year-old Jolanta Bledaite has both shocked and saddened the communities of Brechin and Arbroath.

Superintendent Ewen West, Deputy Divisional Commander, is keen to reassure residents in Arbroath and Brechin that a high profile police presence will remain in these communities.  He said,

‘‘Residents of both towns have publicly voiced their concern that an incident of this nature could happen on their doorstep. But it needs to be recognised that both Brechin and Arbroath are safe towns and, in reality, only a small proportion of residents and visitors are affected by crime.

 

‘‘The murder that has occurred in Brechin and the subsequent discovery of body parts in Arbroath is both unprecedented and tragic. The death of Jolanta Bledaite is both devastating for her family and friends but also for her fellow migrant workers.

 

‘‘Violent crimes often affect our most vulnerable individuals, those who actually need more of our attention and support. They may experience a range of social and perhaps criminal issues and they need to be assured that both Tayside Police and our partner agencies are more than happy to assist them in dealing with these situations.

 

‘‘Crime has fallen consistently over the last five years and we have seen the most significant reductions in violent offences and serious assaults.  Our intention is to disrupt those committing criminal acts, as well as identifying and protecting those who may feel vulnerable.

 

‘‘We recognise that we need to reassure members of the migrant worker community that they are safe and secure in Angus.  To that end we will be working closely with our partners in Angus Council to develop better lines of communication between ourselves and the migrant workers.  Our officers will be gathering information around inter-community tensions, and establishing networks within these communities.

 

‘‘I want all of our migrant workers to know that any crime is unacceptable, and that if any one of them has been the victim of a crime, they should get in touch with us.  We understand that there may be language barriers but that is not something that they should fear, as we have access to a range of official interpreters if necessary.’’

Anyone who has any concerns about their personal safety, or anyone who has any information about any criminal activity within Angus, should get in touch with Tayside Police in Angus on (01307) 302200.  Information can also be passed on anonymously to Crimestoppers on 0800-555-111.