A 36-year-old man has been charged following a series of violent incidents across Edinburgh that left five people injured and prompted a counter-terrorism investigation, Police Scotland confirmed.
The attacks, which unfolded on Friday evening across several areas of the city, are being treated as hate-motivated offences. British Prime Minister Keir Starmer said the violence appeared to be driven by “anti-Muslim hatred” and vowed that the suspect would face the full force of the law.
“A 36-year-old man has been charged in connection with a number of incidents which took place in Edinburgh on Friday, 19 June 2026,” Police Scotland said. A report has been submitted to the Procurator Fiscal, and the accused is expected to appear in court at a later date.
Emergency services were first called to the Sighthill area at around 8.50pm after reports of an assault involving two men. Shortly afterwards, further incidents were reported near retail locations across west and north Edinburgh, including Telford Road and Leith Walk.
Five men, aged between 22 and 39, were injured during the series of attacks. Police said three required hospital treatment, though none of the injuries are believed to be life-threatening.
Authorities confirmed that a white Scottish man was arrested at around 9.30pm on Friday. Counter-terrorism officers were involved in the investigation due to the nature and coordination of the incidents.
Footage circulating online showed a bare-chested man carrying a large weapon through city streets, as well as another clip appearing to show him damaging property and later being restrained by officers while shouting claims about “protecting the country.”
Prime Minister Keir Starmer condemned the violence, saying his thoughts were with the injured and praising emergency services for their rapid response. He described the incident as “absolutely appalling” and said hatred of this kind would not be tolerated.
Home Secretary Shabana Mahmood also expressed shock, saying there was “no place for hatred and violence against Muslims” in the UK. She thanked police for their swift action in apprehending the suspect and assisting victims.
Scottish First Minister John Swinney and Police Scotland Assistant Chief Constable Catriona Paton both condemned the attacks, stressing that racism and faith-based violence have no place in Scotland. Paton said officers acted quickly to contain a fast-moving situation and prioritised public safety throughout.
Police have launched a Major Incident Public Portal, encouraging witnesses to submit information. Investigations into the full circumstances of the attacks are ongoing, with authorities urging the public to assist where possible.
