A 36-year-old man named Lewis Hawkes faces charges related to terrorism and attempted murders after carrying out attacks targeting Muslims in Edinburgh. The Crown Office stated that Hawkes is also accused of assault, robbery, breach of the peace, and reckless conduct, all aggravated by a terrorist connection.
Following a probe by counter-terrorism officers, it was revealed that the attacks, which left five men injured, had an apparent anti-Muslim motive. Two 22-year-old men were stabbed multiple times after prayers at Broomhouse Mosque, while three others were assaulted on Leith Walk.
Hawkes did not enter a plea during a private hearing at Edinburgh Sheriff Court and has been remanded in custody pending another court appearance within eight days.
Several incidents were reported across Edinburgh on the same evening. Two young men were stabbed at Sighthill Park after leaving prayer at the mosque, and a taxi was vandalized at a Shell garage. CCTV footage captured Hawkes damaging property at a BP garage before he was seen armed with weapons on Leith Walk.
Police Scotland has engaged with over 90 multi-faith organizations in Edinburgh in response to the attacks. Superintendent Neil Wilson emphasized the importance of supporting all communities to ensure they feel safe and not marginalized. Wilson urged collaboration to prevent any group or individual in Scotland from feeling isolated or targeted.
