Three men have appeared in court charged with impersonating police officers to steal money from tourists.

Stefan Lautara, 36, 41-year-old Constantin Ionita and Cristain Ghita, 28, were arrested over the incidents in Edinburgh city centre on Monday.

Lautara, of Luton, and Mr Ghita, of Hemel Hempstead, are accused of impersonating a police officer to steal cash.

Ionita, of Northampton, has been charged with being involved in a fraudulent scheme.

The group made no plea or declaration during the private hearing at Edinburgh Sheriff Court on Tuesday and were committed for further examination.

They were remanded in custody and are expected to appear in court at a later date.