Edinburgh: Friday Attack Series - 5 Injured, Counter-Terror Investigation
Police Scotland charged a 36-year-old man. Starmer cited anti-Muslim hatred. Leith Walk footage spread across social media.
On the evening of June 19, a series of attacks hit different parts of Edinburgh. Five men were injured, three hospitalized. Counter-terrorism officers joined the probe. A 36-year-old suspect was detained around 21:30 and later charged.
What happened
Police Scotland said incidents ran from 20:50 to 21:30:
- Sighthill - two men injured
- Ferry Road - a BP petrol station, smashed taxi windows, video shows a shirtless man with a large weapon
- Leith Walk - blows on a pizzeria door, staff closed shutters
- in one clip an officer pins the suspect down - he shouts he’s “protecting the country”
Victims were aged 22, 22, 24, 27, and 39. Injuries are serious but not life-threatening. Muslim Engagement and Development and the Association of Mosques said some victims are Muslim - two were attacked after prayers.
Official response
Prime Minister Keir Starmer on X:
Absolutely appalling. The suspect appears to be motivated by anti-Muslim hatred. I will not tolerate this - he will face the full force of the law.
Home Secretary Shabana Mahmood called it “horrified.” Assistant Chief Constable Catriona Paton called it a “shocking attack.”
The Muslim Council of Britain said the community is “rightly nervous and worried.”
What happens next
The investigation continues. Police are asking witnesses to share any camera footage. No wider public threat has been declared - the suspect is in custody.
The Edinburgh North East and Leith MP said the area is diverse and the city should stand with those hurt.