- Counter-terrorism officers investigate violent attacks targeting five men in Edinburgh city.
- A 36 year old Scottish man was detained following several incidents.
- Victims sustained non-life-threatening injuries across Sighthill Telford Road and Leith Walk.
Five men aged between 22 and 39, were injured in suspected anti-Muslim attacks across Edinburgh. Two victims were assaulted in a park after leaving the Broomhouse mosque in Sighthill. Three other men were attacked in Telford Road and Leith Walk areas during a fast-moving sequence of events on Friday night.
A white Scottish male aged 36 was arrested by Taser-equipped officers around 9.30pm. Social media footage depicts a shirtless individual with a long weapon battering a restaurant door. This man was filmed shouting about «protecting the country» while being detained by police officers on the ground.
Counter-terrorism police investigate hate crimes in Edinburgh
The Crown Office and Procurator Fiscal Service are directing the probe. Assistant chief constable Catriona Paton stated that public safety was our priority during the fast-moving events. Police closed Leith Walk and established a major incident public portal for evidence submission from the public.
Keir Starmer described the events as absolutely appalling stating that the suspect «appears to be motivated by anti-Muslim hatred». He insisted the perpetrator will face the full force of the law. First minister John Swinney also expressed deep concern regarding the violence and racism.
Omar Afzal of the Scottish Association of Mosques noted a profound sense of shock and anger. He argued that prejudice creates an environment in which individuals feel emboldened to act. Meanwhile, Muslim Engagement and Development urged authorities to treat this as far-right terror.
Medical treatment was required for three of the victims at Edinburgh Royal Infirmary. Police have confirmed that there is no further threat to the public now that the suspet has been taken into custody. Officers continue extensive work to establish the full circumstances.
