In Edinburgh, a series of violent incidents left five people injured as a man reportedly went on a knife-wielding rampage through the city’s streets. The attacks, including violence, threats, robbery, and vandalism, occurred in the west of the Scottish capital and Leith on June 19.
Two men, believed to have been attacked near Broomhill Mosque, were found injured in the Sighthill area at 8:50 pm. A third man, identified as an Asian Deliveroo driver, was also found injured on Telford Road, with two more male victims attacked in the Leith Walk area.
The victims, aged 22, 24, 27, and 29, sustained various injuries, with three requiring hospital treatment. According to MEND Scotland, some of the injured individuals are from the Muslim community.
Authorities are investigating the incidents, with Counter-Terrorism Policing Scotland involved, following the arrest of a 36-year-old Scottish man who remains in custody. Social media footage captured the arrest of a man on Leith Walk, who was seen being Tasered before being detained.
In response to the attacks, the British Muslim Trust expressed horror over the reported anti-Muslim nature of the incidents, urging for support and protection for affected communities. Additional videos showed a topless man carrying a large blade and causing vandalism at several locations in the city.
Assistant Chief Constable Catriona Paton condemned the attacks, emphasizing unity against racism and faith-based hate. Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer and Home Secretary Shabana Mahmood also denounced the violence, affirming that anti-Muslim hatred has no place in society.
Justice Secretary Neil Gray assured the public of no ongoing threat and encouraged anyone with information on the attacks to come forward. He emphasized the importance of standing against racism and hate in Scotland, thanking emergency services for their response to the incident.
