Terror Probe Launched Into Suspected Anti-Muslim Attacks in Edinburgh

Counterterrorism police have taken charge of the investigation into a series of suspected anti-Muslim attacks in Edinburgh, Scotland, which left five men injured. Authorities confirmed the unrest occurred late Friday, involving violent acts including threats, robbery, and vandalism across the city.

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Counter Terrorism Policing Scotland is investigating, supported by other specialist colleagues and local policing officers.

Initial reports suggest the attacks began near a mosque and subsequently spread to other areas. Social media footage appeared to show a man carrying a weapon and shouting about "protecting the country" from Muslims. Police stated that five individuals, aged between 22 and 39, sustained injuries, with three requiring hospital treatment, though none of the injuries were life-threatening.

A 36-year-old Scottish man has been arrested in connection with the incidents, and police have assured the public that there is no ongoing threat. Counter Terrorism Policing Scotland is leading the investigation, supported by specialist and local officers. The anti-Islamophobia group MEND urged authorities to classify the events as "Islamophobic, far-right terror."

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there is no place for racism or faith-based hate in Scotland.

Scotland's First Minister John Swinney expressed deep concern, while Assistant Chief Constable Catriona Paton called for calm, emphasizing that "there is no place for racism or faith-based hate in Scotland." These events unfold against a backdrop of rising anti-migrant and anti-Muslim sentiment across the UK, with recent riots in Northern Ireland and England cited as examples of escalating tensions.

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treat this as what the evidence indicates: Islamophobic, far-right terror.