A 36-year-old Scottish man has been arrested after a series of violent attacks across Edinburgh left five men injured, prompting a major counter-terrorism investigation. Police received multiple reports of assaults, threats, robbery, and vandalism on the evening of Friday, June 19, 2026. Counter Terrorism Policing Scotland is leading the investigation, supported by specialist officers and local policing teams, although authorities have confirmed there is no ongoing threat to the wider public.
Details of the Attacks
The first incident was reported at approximately 8:50 PM in the Sighthill area, where two men were injured and later taken to Edinburgh Royal Infirmary by ambulance. Over the following 40 minutes, police received further reports of incidents at retail premises in the west and north of the city. Three other men were subsequently attacked in the Telford Road and Leith Walk areas, sustaining varying injuries.
The victims include two men aged 22, as well as individuals aged 24, 27, and 39. Three of the five were taken to hospital for treatment, but police stated that none of the injuries are believed to be life-threatening.
Arrest and Police Response
At around 9:30 PM, local officers equipped with a Taser confronted a suspect. Although the device was not discharged, the man was detained and taken into custody. He remains in custody while extensive enquiries continue. Police said extra patrols will remain in place across Edinburgh, and residents can expect a visible policing presence in affected areas over the coming days.
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."
Ongoing Investigation
Paton added: "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 thanked officers for their response and appealed for anyone with information to contact police.
A Major Incident Public Portal has been established, with detectives urging witnesses or anyone with relevant footage to submit information directly to investigators as enquiries continue.
