A wave of alleged anti-Muslim attacks swept through Edinburgh on Friday night, leaving five men injured and sparking widespread concern within the city's diverse communities. The series of incidents, which unfolded across the east of the city, saw a taxi and an Uber bike courier targeted in what witnesses suspect were religiously or racially motivated assaults.
The events reportedly began near a mosque in the west of Edinburgh before moving to Leith Walk in the east of the city, where several of the alleged attacks took place. Police confirmed late on Saturday that a 38-year-old white Scottish man had been charged in connection with the various occurrences, which included allegations of knife attacks, threats, robbery, and vandalism.
Four of the five injured men, aged between 22 and 39, received hospital treatment for their injuries. The involvement of Police Scotland's counter-terrorism unit in the ongoing investigation underscores the serious nature of the allegations and the potential motivations behind the attacks.
A rally was held on Leith Walk on Sunday afternoon to show solidarity with the community and reassure those who may feel unsafe following the incidents. Approximately 100 people, including MSPs, councillors, and activists, attended the demonstration, which aimed to demonstrate that such an attack is not representative of the diverse community.
Hasan Eren, owner of Best Kebab House on Leith Walk, witnessed part of the alleged spree. He described seeing a minicab attacked by a bladed instrument-wielding individual, who then went on to assault an Uber cycle courier with multiple strikes. Mr Eren expressed his shock at the violence, noting that he has never seen such incidents in the area despite its lively nature.
Social media footage showed a bare-chested man brandishing a bladed instrument, kicking and hitting the door of a pizza takeaway, causing pedestrians to scatter and staff to lower shutters. The alleged assailant was detained by police carrying Tasers, reportedly dropping the blade and complying with arrest. Witnesses claimed he shouted about 'protecting the country', sparking bewilderment among local residents such as Kenny, 53, who expressed his dismay at the events unfolding in what is normally a well-integrated, multinational community.