Man, 36, charged after ‘Muslims targeted in street attack’ as 5 injured

A 36-YEAR-OLD man has been charged after Muslims were allegedly targeted in an Edinburgh street attack that left five injured. Horror footage seen earlier today showed a topless man with a bladed weapon allegedly targeting minorities in a suspected terror attack. Sir Keir Starmer said the series of assaults appeared to be motivated by “anti-Muslim hatred”. Counter-terrorism cops were called to investigate a “series of incidents” at a “number of locations” which left five people wounded in Edinburgh. Police closed off Leith Walk on Friday evening as the incidents unfolded, with posts on social media appearing to show a man with a bladed weapon on the street. Another video appeared to show a topless man on the ground shouting that he is “protecting the country” as he is held by an officer. Read more UK news Police said in a statement on Saturday night: “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. “A report has been submitted to the Procurator Fiscal, and the individual will appear at court in due course.” Starmer earlier shared an image on X of a topless man appearing to hold a weapon. He wrote: “Absolutely appalling. No one should face violence on our streets. The suspect appears to be motivated by anti-Muslim hatred. I will not tolerate this – he will face the full force of the law. Most read in The Sun “My thoughts are with those who are injured and I thank the police and the emergency services for their response.” Islamic community group MEND Scotland says “several” of the victims are Muslims. A spokesman said: “We stand ready to support the families. “To our community, stay vigilant, look out for one another, report what you see. “You are not alone.” Police rushed to Sighthill Park in the south-west of Edinburgh after frantic 999 calls from members of the public around 8.50pm. It is just minutes from Broomhouse Mosque — where it is claimed worshippers were injured after leaving evening prayers. The Scottish Association of Mosques (SAM) said two of those hurt were “reportedly attacked after attending prayers at their local mosque”. Ambulances and emergency services vehicles could be seen stationed nearby. The suspect was then spotted in Leith Walk area, before the he was captured by officers around 9.30pm. Police confirmed two men, aged 22, and three others, aged 24, 27 and 39, sustained a “range of injuries”. Two were taken to Edinburgh Royal Infirmary for emergency treatment. Police Scotland says there is “no further threat” to the public but confirmed patrols are being stepped up and specialised counter-terrorism officers are investigating. Posting on X, First Minister John Swinney said: “I am deeply concerned by these incidents. “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.” 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. “I want to thank our officers who responded with bravery and professionalism, and with a focus on protecting the public.”