Man appears in court charged with attempted murder charges after Edinburgh alleged anti-Muslim attacks

A man has appeared in court charged with five counts of attempted murder after suspected “racist or faith-based hate attacks” which left five people injured in Edinburgh.

Footage emerged online appearing to show a bare-chested man carrying a weapon and attacking a pizza shop in Leith Walk on Friday night.

Another video appeared to show the same man at a petrol station brandishing a blade, while another video shows a man being held on the ground as he shouts he is “trying to protect his country”.

Police say they received multiple calls about violent attacks including threats, robbery and vandalism across the city.

A 36-year-old Scottish white man was charged in connection with the attacks.

Lewis Hawkes appeared at Edinburgh Sheriff Court on Monday, charged with five accounts of attempted murder, assault and robbery, two accounts of breach of the peace, and two accounts of culpable and reckless conduct.

All of the alleged offences were aggravated by reason of having a terrorist connection.

Hawkes, of Edinburgh, made no plea and was committed for further examination and remanded in custody. He will appear again within eight days.