Seven people have been arrested during a police crackdown on the "cowardly" crime of domestic violence.

A team of 12 extra officers helped local police as they carried out high-visibility patrols in Aberdeen on Friday to target those involved in domestic abuse and alcohol-related violence.

Police Scotland said a 26-year-old man from the Torry area was arrested in relation to domestic assault, while two men, aged 48 and 42, were arrested over domestic assaults in the city centre.

A 37-year-old man from the Rosemount area was arrested in connection with a domestic assault, and a 51-year-old man was held over alleged stalking offences in Mastrick.

A 39-year-old man was arrested over theft and abusive behaviour in the Hilton area.

Officers also carried out checks to ensure those subject to court orders were complying with relevant bail conditions. As a result, a 40-year-old man from the Torry area was arrested in relation to breaching domestic-related bail conditions.

Pc Emma Wright, of the Alcohol and Violence Reduction Unit, said: "Suffering behind closed doors should not and cannot be ignored. We're working to deal with offenders as well as protect victims. No-one should suffer in silence. If you are involved in an abusive relationship, please speak out as there are a range of support services available to you from the police and a raft of other agencies."

The operation is part of Police Scotland's Campaign Against Violence, which has so far seen more than 200 people arrested or charged in connection with issues, including anti-social behaviour, drugs and alcohol-related violent crime.