Man, 36, is charged with terrorism-linked attempted murders in Edinburgh 'after men stabbed following prayers at mosque'

Man, 36, is charged with terrorism-linked attempted murders in Edinburgh 'after men stabbed following prayers at mosque' - Get your news delivered straight to you by 7am - sign up to our new Morning mail newsletter for FREE - See more Daily Mail on Google - save us as a Preferred Source A man has appeared in court charged with five charges linked to terrorism after a series of alleged anti-Muslim attacks in Edinburgh on Friday evening. Lewis Hawkes, 36, faced five allegations of attempted murder and three of assault and robbery when he appeared at a private hearing at Edinburgh Sheriff Court earlier on Monday. It is believed five people were injured following the incidents that reportedly took place across the north of the city. Two of those injured are 22, while the others are aged 24, 27 and 39. Two of the victims were reported to have been taken to Edinburgh Royal Infirmary after reportedly being stabbed 'multiple times' after prayers at Broomhouse Mosque - although Police Scotland have since clarified none of the injuries were life-threatening. The investigation into the circumstances is being led by counter-terrorism officers, supported by local policing officers in Edinburgh and other specialist national capabilities in Scotland. Hawkes, whose address was given as Edinburgh, is also charged with two counts of culpable and reckless conduct and a single charge of breach of the peace. All 10 allegations are said to be aggravated by reason of having a terrorist connection. Hawkes made no plea and the case was committed for further examination. He was remanded in custody and is due to appear back at the capital court within eight days. Footage shared on social media showed a bare chested man in the Leith Walk area carrying what appeared to be a large blade Superintendent Neil Wilson and First Minister John Swinney met affected locals at the Broomhouse Mosque where the alleged attack took place last Friday after prayers First Minister John Swinney and Superintendent Neil Wilson visited Broomhouse Mosque today, with the SNP leader claiming that the alleged attack should be a 'wake-up call' for the country over intolerance towards others. Superintendent Wilson, of Police Scotland's Edinburgh local policing division, said that while there is no current wider threat, he recognised that concerns in the community would be 'heightened' after the alleged attack. He said: 'We recognise the concerns felt within all communities, including those who experienced and witnessed these horrific attacks, and we understand concerns may be heightened at this time.' 'We have also been in touch with the police officers who bravely carried out the arrest on Friday, as well as speaking to other officers to offer any support they need.' Mr Wilson said police had spoken to more than 90 multi-faith organisations around Edinburgh and Scotland since Friday. He added: 'It is important that all communities across Scotland feel supported, protected and able to go about their daily lives without fear of hatred or intimidation. 'I would urge everyone to continue to work together and ensure no person or group in Scotland feels marginalised or isolated.' The officer encouraged any witnesses to submit information to the major incident public portal set up by police online. Sir Keir Starmer said at the time of the alleged attack: '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. 'My thoughts are with those who are injured and I thank the police and the emergency services for their response.'