Man charged with terrorism-linked attempted murders in Edinburgh

A man has appeared in court charged with attempted murder and other offenses linked to alleged anti-Muslim attacks in Edinburgh. Lewis Hawkes, 36, faces five counts of attempted murder, along with charges of assault and robbery, breach of the peace, and culpable and reckless conduct. All charges are "aggravated by reason of having a terrorist connection."

Five people were injured in a series of attacks across the city on Friday night. Two 22-year-old men were stabbed multiple times near Broomhouse Mosque after evening prayers and taken to the hospital. Their injuries were not life-threatening. Later, three other individuals were attacked on Leith Walk, and a taxi and a petrol station were also targeted.

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Video footage emerged showing a bare-chested man carrying weapons. One clip depicted a man parking a vehicle and then chasing someone on an e-bike before attacking another man with knives. Another video showed a man overturning shelves in a shop.

Police Scotland stated that none of the injuries were life-threatening and that counter-terror officers are leading the investigation. The incidents have prompted concern, with John Swinney, Deputy First Minister, calling them a "wake-up call" regarding intolerance.

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