Community rallies together after suspected faith-based hate attacks

A community in Edinburgh insist a spate of suspected “faith-based hate” attacks which left five people injured will not define them.

A white 36-year-old Scottish man has been charged in connection with the violence, which Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer said appeared to be motivated by “anti-Muslim hatred”.

Counter terrorism officers are investigating the incidents after footage emerged online appearing to show a bare-chested man carrying a large weapon in Leith Walk on Friday night.

Linsay Taylor from Muslim Engagement and Development told STV News: “I think many Muslims in Scotland and across the UK’s reaction was shock and horror, but at the same time not surprise.

“Unfortunately, we’ve seen the signs that this kind of incident and this kind of attack is going to happen.

“This is a time where we have to unite and come together, not a time where we have to be divided.

“And it feels like some people are doing everything they can to divide us.”

Three of the assaults took place near Blackhall Mosque on Telford Road.

Local resident Owais Ahmed said: “The community I think does feel the anxiety that comes with it. Some of the members that we know very closely, some friends were affected by it.

“But we’re just pulling together and getting back to normal, that’s all.”

A planned fun day at the mosque looked to be in jeopardy after Friday’s attacks due to safety and security concerns but the community decided they would rally together.

They wanted to send a message that this is their home and they are not afraid.

Owais added: “The last thing we want is to allow ourselves to get intimidated by such acts. Our lives are not necessarily limited to that. So we’re just carrying on as normal.”

The attacks have come amid a rising wave of anti-immigration feeling – with demonstrations becoming a more common sight across the UK.

John Swinney will meet with members of the Muslim community on Monday.

“There is no place for race-based or faith-based violence in Scotland,” said the First Minister.

“My thoughts are with all who have been impacted – the victims but also the communities who are understandably anxious by what happened.”

Mr Swinney said people must “stand united in utter condemnation” of the “heinous” attacks that took place in Edinburgh.

“Anti-Muslim hatred is abhorrent, and we must not allow recent attempts to stoke fear to divide us,” he added.

“Everyone who lives in Scotland – those that were born here and those that have decided to make Scotland their home – epitomise Scotland’s values of hope, tolerance and solidarity.

“These are values that must be cherished, nurtured and protected. We must all come together to ensure that.

“I am grateful to Police Scotland for the continued work they are undertaking to ensure communities feel safe and supported. I want to reassure communities that my government will lead from the front in tackling all forms of violence, division and prejudice.”