Scottish authorities are investigating a series of attacks in Edinburgh that left five men injured and have been described by officials and community groups as motivated by anti-Muslim hatred. A 36-year-old man was arrested late Friday and has since been charged in connection with the incidents, which occurred in the west and north areas of the city.

Police Scotland reported receiving multiple emergency calls about violent attacks, threats, robbery, and vandalism involving five male victims aged between 22 and 39. Three of the injured men required hospital treatment, though none of the injuries are considered life-threatening. According to the Muslim Engagement and Development charity, several victims are members of the Muslim community, with two reportedly attacked after attending prayers at their local mosque in Sighthill. The group described the attacks as “Islamophobic, far-right terror” and called for a comprehensive hate crime investigation and prosecution. The British Muslim Trust also expressed deep concern over the violence.

Footage circulating on social media showed a shirtless man carrying a long weapon walking the streets of Edinburgh before battering the door of a restaurant. Another clip appeared to capture the same man shouting about “protecting the country” while being restrained by police. CCTV obtained by broadcasters showed the suspect driving erratically before approaching a man on an e-bike near Leith Walk, one of the scenes linked to the attacks. Reports indicate the incidents began around 8 p.m. near the Broomhouse Mosque, shortly after Asr prayers.

Prime Minister Keir Starmer condemned the attacks, stating that the assailant “appears to be motivated by anti-Muslim hatred” and pledged that the individual would “face the full force of the law.” U.K. Home Secretary Shabana Mahmood said she was “horrified” by the events and emphasized that hatred and violence against Muslims have no place in the country. Assistant Chief Constable Catriona Paton described the situation as “shocking” and highlighted ongoing support from Counter Terrorism Policing in the investigation.

The Muslim Council of Britain highlighted wider concerns within the Islamic community, linking the violence to political rhetoric they say demonizes entire groups. They called for unity against racism and faith-based hate, reinforcing messages that such hatred is unacceptable in Scotland and across the United Kingdom. Authorities have stated there is no ongoing threat to the public as they continue to investigate the incidents.