Five people were injured in Edinburgh on Friday, June 19, after a man reportedly wielding a knife went on a rampage across the city. The attacks, which included violent assaults, threats, robbery, and vandalism, occurred in the west of the Scottish capital and Leith. Counter-terrorism police have launched an investigation, and a 36-year-old Scottish man has been arrested and remains in custody.
Attacks Near Mosque and on Deliveroo Driver
Two men were attacked near Broomhill Mosque and found injured in the Sighthill area at 8:50 pm. A third man, believed to be an Asian Deliveroo driver, was found injured on Telford Road. Two additional male victims were attacked on Leith Walk. The victims, aged 22, 24, 27, and 29, sustained injuries that are not life-threatening, though three required hospital treatment. According to MEND Scotland, a Muslim engagement group, multiple victims are part of the Muslim community.
Arrest and Social Media Footage
Social media footage shows a man being arrested on Leith Walk, with police using a Taser before detaining him. In the clip, the handcuffed man shouts, "I'm protecting the f***ing country." Another video shows a topless man carrying a large blade while walking along Leith Walk. Police also responded to reports of vandalism at retailers across the west and north of the city.
Witness Accounts and Police Response
A video shows a topless man smashing the windows of Origano Cafe & Pizzeria on Leith Walk, forcing staff to close the shutters to end the attack. A staff member told the Daily Record: "A man ran up and smashed the windows. We were able to put the shutter down quickly to protect everyone. It's a very frightening situation. It's just horrible." Leith Walk was closed, and diversions were put in place.
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."
