Counter terror police investigating attacks on Muslims ‘leaving mosque’ in Edinburgh

A range of attacks have been carried out in Edinburgh appearing to target the Muslim community.

Counter terror police have confirmed they are investigating the incidents which left five men – two aged 22, and others aged 24, 27 and 39 – with a range of injuries.

Three of the men were taken to hospital and none of the injuries are believed to be life-threatening.

A 36-year-old white Scottish man has been arrested.

Police were called to the first report at 8.50pm on Friday to the Sighthill area where two men were injured.

More reports started coming in about incidents at different retailers across the west and north of the city.

Three other men were attacked in the Telford Road and Leith Walk area.

The Scottish Association of Mosques (SAM) said two of those hurt were ‘reportedly attacked after attending prayers at their local mosque’.

Footage posted to social media shows a topless man with a knife being pinned to the ground by officers.

He shouts: ‘I am protecting the country.’

Assistant Chief Constable Catriona Paton said: ‘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.’

First Minister John Swinney said he was ‘deeply concerned’ by the attacks.

He 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.’

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