Man charged with attempted murder linked to terrorism following Edinburgh attacks

A 36-year-old man has appeared in court charged with five counts of attempted murder "aggravated by reason of having a terrorist connection".

Lewis Hawkes was also charged with one count of assault and robbery, two counts of breach of the peace and two counts of culpable and reckless conduct, all of which are also aggravated by reason of having a terrorist connection, the Crown Office said.

Hawkes, of Edinburgh, did not submit a plea during a private hearing at Edinburgh Sheriff Court on Monday.

He was committed for further examination and remanded in custody, ahead of another court appearance within eight days.

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Counter-terrorism officers were brought in to investigate the attacks across the city, which left five people injured and are suspected to have an anti-Muslim motivation.

Officers were first called to a report of an incident in the Sighthill area, where two men were injured, at about 8.50pm on Friday.

Detectives said three other men were then allegedly attacked in the Telford Road and Leith Walk areas of the capital.

Police said two men aged 22, and others aged 24, 27 and 39, sustained a range of injuries and three needed hospital treatment, however, none of the injuries were life-threatening.

The organisation Muslim Engagement and Development (Mend) said several of those injured are Muslim.

Superintendent Neil Wilson, of Police Scotland, said concerns might be "heightened" in the wake of the alleged attacks.

He said: "It is important that all communities across Scotland feel supported, protected and able to go about their daily lives without fear of hatred or intimidation."

He added: "We are carrying out a community impact assessment and will closely monitor the situation to ensure the safety and wellbeing of all communities, and we are prepared to respond promptly to any emerging issues."

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