A terrorism-linked attempted murder case has been brought against a man in Edinburgh for allegedly carrying out anti-Muslim assaults. Lewis Hawkes, aged 36, faces charges including assault, robbery, breach of the peace, and reckless conduct, all aggravated by a terrorist connection, as confirmed by the Crown Office.
The attacks, suspected to be anti-Muslim in nature, left five men injured, with two aged 22 and others aged 24, 27, and 39. Two of the victims were stabbed multiple times after prayers at Broomhouse Mosque, while the remaining three were attacked on Leith Walk.
Hawkes appeared in a private hearing at Edinburgh Sheriff Court where he did not enter a plea. He has been remanded in custody pending another court appearance within eight days.
Multiple incidents were reported across Edinburgh on the same evening. Two 22-year-old men were stabbed at Sighthill Park after leaving prayers at the mosque, while a taxi was vandalized at a Shell garage on Telford Road. CCTV footage captured a man causing havoc at a BP garage on Ferry Road before heading to Leith Walk armed with weapons and attacking individuals.
Following the attacks, Police Scotland engaged with over 90 multi-faith organizations in Edinburgh. Superintendent Neil Wilson emphasized the importance of supporting all communities and ensuring a safe environment free from hatred or intimidation in Scotland. Wilson called for unity and collaboration to prevent any person or group from feeling marginalized or isolated.