Ukrainian teens 'stabbed, cut, and punched' in racially aggravated attack by gang of youths in Edinburgh

Three Ukrainian teenagers were the victims of a racially aggravated assault in Edinburgh on Sunday night.

At around 8.30pm on September 3, three Ukrainian boys, two aged 13 and one aged 15, were walking towards a bus stop in Niddrie Mains Road when they were approached by a gang of youths.

Two youths from the group assaulted one of the 13-year-old boys, leaving him with a laceration to his ear.

The 15-year-old was punched by other members of the group while the other 13-year-old was stabbed.

The gang, who were all wearing dark clothing, ran off following the incident.

The injured boys were treated at hospital and the incident was reported to police on Monday, September 4.

Detectives investigating the incident are treating it as racially aggravated.

Police added that relevant CCTV footage is being reviewed for any additional information on the group of youths.

Detective inspector Keith Fairbairn said: “I know there were members of the public in the area at the time of the attack and I am asking them to contact us with any information they may have.

“We are appealing for details on the group of youths, who were dressed in dark clothing, perhaps you saw them somewhere else, did you see them running off, any small piece of information could assist us in identifying those responsible for these attacks.”

Edinburgh City Council leader Cammy Day said: “I unequivocally condemn this cowardly and disgraceful attack on three of our Ukrainian residents. Racism has absolutely no place in Edinburgh and I hope that the authorities are able to find those responsible quickly and bring them to justice.

“I have been clear since the first days of Russia’s illegal war against Ukraine, that those Ukrainians who have had to make their new lives here in Edinburgh are welcome here for as long as they need. Over the last 18 months, I am proud that as a city we have stepped up in solidarity with Ukrainians. This support will continue.”

Anyone with information is asked to call Police Scotland via 101, quoting incident number 2523. You can also call Crimestoppers and give your information anonymously. They can be contacted on 0800 555 111.