UK PM says Edinburgh attacks appeared motivated by anti-Muslim hatred after five injured

British Prime Minister Keir Starmer has condemned a series of violent attacks in Edinburgh that left five men injured, saying the incidents appeared to be driven by “anti-Muslim hatred”.

Police Scotland said a 36-year-old white Scottish man has been charged following multiple reports of violent incidents across the city on Friday, including alleged threats, robbery and vandalism. Counter Terrorism Policing Scotland is leading the investigation with support from specialist officers.

“Absolutely appalling. No one should face violence on our streets. The suspect appears to be motivated by anti-Muslim hatred,” said Starmer in a statement on Saturday evening.

“I will not tolerate this – he will face the full force of the law. My thoughts are with those who are injured, and I thank the police and the emergency services for their response,” he said.

The Prime Minister’s remarks came after social media footage showed a shirtless man carrying a large knife and apparently targeting a shop front.

UK Home Secretary Shabana Mahmood also condemned the incident.

“I am grateful to the police and emergency services for their bravery in apprehending the suspect and for their speedy response in attending to the victims.

“The suspect appears to be motivated by anti-Muslim hatred. There is no place for hatred and violence against Muslims. I know it is not who we are as a country.”

According to Police Scotland, the first report was received at about 8.50pm local time in the Sighthill area of Edinburgh, where two men were injured and taken to Edinburgh Royal Infirmary. Further incidents were later reported near retail premises in the western and northern parts of the city.

“During this period, three other men were attacked in the Telford Road and Leith Walk area, suffering differing injuries. Around 9.30pm, local police officers equipped with a taser confronted a suspect and, although the taser was not discharged, the man was detained,” Police Scotland stated.

The force said officers would maintain a visible presence in affected areas over the coming days to reassure local communities.

“This was a shocking attack, and my first thoughts are with those who were injured and most directly affected,” said Police Scotland Assistant Chief Constable Catriona Paton.

“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,” she said.

The Muslim Engagement and Development organisation said several of those injured were Muslim.

Scotland’s First Minister John Swinney said he was “deeply concerned” by the attacks.

“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,” he said.