Operation Maple targets domestic abuse in Aberdeen

Police are targeting domestic abuse in Aberdeen during a two-day crackdown.

The initiative has been launched as part of the ongoing Operation Maple, after the force dealt with 3,676 incidents of domestic abuse last year.

Grampian Police said as many as one in four women could be a victim during their life.

Sgt Moyra Clark, of the domestic abuse unit, said: "For some, their home is a place of fear and violence, where they never know what will happen next."

She explained: "There is an assumption by many that domestic violence occurs only in deprived areas, however it is a despicable crime which stretches across every social spectrum, and is certainly not postcode specific.

"I am acutely aware that a massive proportion of domestic incidents go unreported and that numerous victims have suffered a lifetime of abuse at the hands of their partner.

"Victims should be assured that Grampian Police will make every effort to ensure evidence is secured and the offenders are brought to justice."