Five men hurt in suspected 'faith-hate attacks' in Edinburgh as Scottish man arrested

Five people have been injured in what police are describing as a suspected “racist or faith-based hate attacks” in Edinburgh.

Footage emerged online appearing to show a bare-chested man carrying a weapon and attacking a pizza shop in Leith Walk on Friday night.

Another video appeared to show the same man at a petrol station brandishing a blade.

Police say they received multiple calls about violent attacks including threats, robbery and vandalism across the city.

A 36-year-old Scottish white man has been arrested and police say there is no further risk to the public.

Another video online shows a man being held on the ground as he shouts he is “trying to protect his country”.

Police Scotland says counter terrorism is investigating supported by other specialist colleagues and local policing officers.

Muslim group MEND posted on Facebook that several of the men attacked were Muslim and say police must treat this “as what the evidence indicates Islamophobic, far right terror”.

John Swinney said in a post on social media he is “deeply concerned” by these incidents.

The First Minister added: “There is no place for violence, racism or intolerance in our country. I met community groups last week to assure them of the strong support of the Government.”

The British Muslim Trust posted on X saying “they are deeply concerned by the shocking attacks in Edinburgh”, adding, “these incidents will send shockwaves through Muslim communities.

“Through our work supporting victims and monitoring anti-Muslim hostility, we consistently hear from people who tell us they are fearful, anxious and increasingly concerned for their safety.

“Attacks such as these will only deepen that distress and reinforce the sense of vulnerability felt by many. No one should live in fear because of their faith or perceived identity.

“Our thoughts are with those affected. We urge the police in Scotland to thoroughly investigate this terrifying incident and for the government to ensure Muslim communities are protected.

“Anti-Muslim hostility does not exist in a vacuum. When prejudice and hostility are normalised, they create the conditions in which violence becomes more likely.

“We cannot afford to ignore these warning signs.

“Anti-Muslim hostility has real-world consequences, and it must be confronted before acts of violence like this become normalised, leaving Muslim communities living in fear.”

None of the injuries sustained are believed to be life threatening, according to police, with the men aged between 22 and 39.

Police say the first report originated around 8.50pm on Friday in the Sighthill area, where two men were injured and were taken to hospital.

There were further reports received around retailers across the west and north of the city.

Police say during this period three other men were attacked in Telford Road and Leith Walk.

Assistant Chief Constable Catriona Paton said: “This was a shocking attack and my first thoughts are with those who were injured and most directly affected.

“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 a Scotland which is at its best when we stand together.

“Officers responded to multiple reports of a fast-moving sequence of events across Edinburgh before arresting a man and public safety was our priority.

“Extensive work is ongoing to establish all the circumstances. We are being supported by Counter Terrorism Policing and working under the direction of the Crown Office and Procurator Fiscal Service.

“I want to thank our officers who responded with bravery and professionalism, and with a focus on protecting the public.”