Thousands take part in anti-racism rally after terrorism-linked murder bids

Thousands took part in an anti-racism rally through Edinburgh, a week on from alleged anti-Muslim attacks in the city.

Demonstrators marched down Leith Walk as part of the Reclaim Our Streets event and held a minute’s silence at the spot where one of the alleged attacks took place.

Emergency services received multiple calls about violent assaults, including threats, robbery and vandalism across the city on June 19.

The first report was received at around 8.50pm after two men were attacked near Broomhouse Mosque, in the Sighthill area. The incident ended in Leith Walk, where three people were injured.

Organisers estimate that thousands took part in the rally STV News

Lewis Hawkes, a 36-year-old Scottish white man, was charged in connection with five terrorism-linked attempted murders following the incident. He made no plea and was remanded in custody following a court appearance on Monday.

Rania Obead, co-convener of Stand Up to Racism Edinburgh, told STV News that some people in the Muslim community have been left too scared to leave their homes.

“Many of my friends, especially Muslim women wearing hijabs, feel it is not safe to go out.

“A lot of people are very stressed about the escalation in racist attacks that they see. Our kids at school are suffering. People in our community really feel this stress everywhere.”

Police confirmed that one arrest was made during the event.

A 56-year-old man has been charged in connection with threatening and abusive behaviour.

A Police Scotland spokesperson said: “A 56-year-old man was arrested and charged in connection with threatening and abusive behaviour in the Leith Walk area of Edinburgh on Saturday, June 27, 2026.

“He has been released on an undertaking to appear in court at a later date.”