String of Attacks Across Edinburgh Appear Aimed at Muslim Community
Counterterrorism detectives have been called in after a wave of violent incidents in Edinburgh left five men injured in what Police Scotland said appeared to be targeted attacks against the Muslim community. The assaults were spread across the west and north of the city. A 36-year-old man was arrested late on Friday as officers continued to piece together the full picture of what happened.
Five Men Hurt, Three Needed Hospital Treatment
The five victims were aged 22, 22, 24, 27 and 39. Three of the injured required hospital care. Police Scotland confirmed that none of the injuries was thought to be life-threatening. Officers had received multiple reports before making the arrest.
Two Victims Attacked After Leaving Prayers at Local Mosque
The charity Muslim Engagement and Development confirmed that several of those hurt are Muslim. According to the Scottish Association of Mosques, two of the men were targeted after leaving prayers at their local mosque. Police have not released detailed information about the victims but said work was ongoing to fully understand the circumstances of the attacks.
Counter Terrorism Policing Brought in to Support Officers
Assistant Chief Constable Catriona Paton of Police Scotland described the events as "a shocking incident" and confirmed that Counter Terrorism Policing was supporting officers on the ground. Paton said: "I want to send a clear message of support to all our communities that there is no place for racism or faith-based hate in Scotland, which is at its best when we stand together."
Social Media Videos Show Shirtless Man Carrying a Weapon
Multiple videos circulating on social media appeared to show a shirtless man walking through the streets of Edinburgh carrying a long weapon. One clip seemed to show him striking the door of a restaurant in the Scottish capital. A second video appeared to show the same person on the ground being held down by a police officer, with the man appearing to shout about protecting the country. Police Scotland did not officially confirm the videos but said officers had acted in response to multiple reports from across the city.
UK Prime Minister and Home Secretary Respond With Condemnation
UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer said the suspect appeared to have been driven by anti-Muslim hatred and posted on X: "I will not tolerate this. He will face the full force of the law." UK Home Secretary Shabana Mahmood said the reports had left her "horrified" and added: "There is no place for hatred and violence against Muslims. I know it is not who we are as a country."
Muslim Organisations Voice Alarm Over Community Safety
The Muslim Council of Britain said the Muslim community was "rightly nervous and worried" and connected the violence to political rhetoric that they said had been demonising entire communities. Police Scotland said the arrested man remained central to the investigation, and that officers were continuing their work across the affected parts of Edinburgh.
