Heartless thieves stole a disabled woman’s mobility scooter from outside her front door. Bonnie Gilroy briefly left her vehicle next to the disability ramp at her property on Craigentinny Road, Edinburgh.
It had only sat there for a few moments before selfish robbers swiped it. Bonnie came back out and the scooter, which was filled with a full week’s worth of shopping for her and her elderly mum, had vanished.
Claire Ross, Bonnie’s niece, said the family is sickened by the theft as her auntie will lose her independence and ability to travel without it. Speaking to Edinburgh Live, she said Bonnie spent a long time saving for the mobility aid, which had become essential to her living her life.
She added: “My aunt was born with cerebral palsy and spina bifida. She has a mild learning disability and was born with flat feet which meant she couldn’t walk until she was five. Bonnie had left it outside her home for two minutes and by the time she came back out it was gone. We’ve still not heard anything and would love to try to get it back as it’s the only way she can get about.
“It’s brand new and she bought it outright after saving up for ages. It is tragic that someone would think it acceptable to steal someone’s mobility scooter. It’s had a massive impact on her as it’s her only mode of transport. Her balance isn’t great with walking. She’s getting older now so she decided to buy a scooter to help her get around.”
Claire said Bonnie lives with her mum, who is in her 80s and can no longer get out of the house. She added: “She’s always lived with her mum and can no longer get out to shops. My aunt is her support for getting food shops in.
“When the scooter was stolen it actually had my nana and aunt’s weekly shop in it. It takes a certain type of person to steal a mobility scooter off someone who is clearly disabled and in need of it.
“It’s their lifeline to get about and still have their freedom. I’m a community care worker myself, so I understand how important these scooters are for people in need.
“We have no idea who stole it. We’d urge anyone to come forward if they have any information on where it is. I cannot believe someone would do such a thing.”
Police Scotland have launched an investigation into the alleged theft. A spokesperson said: “Around 2.55pm on Wednesday November 6, 2024, officers received a report of the theft of a mobility scooter on Craigentinny Road, Edinburgh. Enquiries are ongoing.”
Don’t miss the latest news from around Scotland and beyond.Sign up to our daily newsletter.