Counterterrorism detectives in Scotland are investigating after five people were injured in a series of attacks in Edinburgh that appeared to target Muslims, police said Saturday. A 36-year-old man was arrested late Friday following multiple reports of assaults in the west and north of the city.
Victims and Injuries
Police Scotland said five men sustained a range of injuries: two aged 22, and others aged 24, 27, and 39. Three required hospital treatment, though none of the injuries are considered life-threatening. The charity Muslim Engagement and Development confirmed that several of those injured are Muslim. The Scottish Association of Mosques reported that two of the men were attacked after attending prayers at their local mosque.
Prime Minister's Response
UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer stated that the suspect "appears to be motivated by anti-Muslim hatred." In a post on X, he said, "I will not tolerate this — he will face the full force of the law." He added, "My thoughts are with those who are injured and I thank the police and the emergency services."
Video Evidence and Public Reaction
Video posted on social media appeared to show a shirtless man carrying a long weapon roaming a street and battering a restaurant door. Another video seemed to show the same man on the ground shouting about "protecting the country" while being held by a police officer. Home Secretary Shabana Mahmood said she was "horrified by news of the attack in Edinburgh" and stressed, "There is no place for hatred and violence against Muslims."
Community Concerns and Police Statement
The Muslim Council of Britain said the Muslim community is "rightly nervous and worried," attributing the violence to "political rhetoric that demonizes entire communities." Police Scotland Assistant Chief Constable Catriona Paton described the incident as "shocking" and noted that officers "are being supported by Counter Terrorism Policing." She added, "There is no place for racism or faith-based hate in a Scotland, which is at its best when we stand together."
