A man has been charged after a series of suspected anti-Muslim attacks in Edinburgh left five men injured.
The incidents are thought to have begun near a mosque in the west of the city, where two men were reportedly hurt.
Police Scotland said a 36-year-old white Scottish man was arrested and added that Counter Terrorism Policing Scotland is investigating alongside other officers.
Footage shared on social media appears to show a bare-chested man carrying a large weapon damaging a petrol station and later striking at the door of a pizzeria before being restrained by police.
Five men aged 22, 22, 24, 27 and 39 were injured in the incidents. Three were taken to hospital, though none of the injuries are believed to be life-threatening.
Muslim engagement group MEND said the attack should be investigated as a possible Islamophobic incident, describing it as “far-right terror” and calling for police to examine the alleged motive.
“To investigate these attacks while ignoring a motive shouted aloud at the point of arrest would tell every Muslim in Scotland that the law does not see the hatred aimed at them,” the group said.
“The suspect appears to be motivated by anti-Muslim hatred”
Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer said the suspect appeared to have been motivated by “anti-Muslim hatred.”
“My thoughts are with those who are injured and I thank the police and the emergency services for their response,” he said on X.
First Minister John Swinney said he was “deeply concerned” by the attacks, stressing that “there is no place for violence, racism or intolerance in our country”.
Assistant Chief Constable Catriona Paton said: “This was a shocking attack and my first thoughts are with those who were injured and most directly affected.
“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. We are being supported by Counter Terrorism Policing and working under the direction of the Crown Office and Procurator Fiscal Service.
“I want to thank our officers who responded with bravery and professionalism, and with a focus on protecting the public.
“I’m hugely grateful for the support and assistance of our communities and would appeal for anyone with any information to share it with police. We have established a major incident police portal.”
