Auto Amazon Links: No products found. Blocked by captcha.
A 36-year-old man, Lewis Hawkes, has appeared in court facing multiple charges related to terrorism and violent attacks in Edinburgh. He is accused of five counts of attempted murder, alongside several other charges including assault, robbery, breach of the peace, and culpable and reckless conduct. All charges have been designated as being aggravated by a terrorist connection. During his initial appearance at Edinburgh Sheriff Court, Hawkes made no plea and was remanded in custody.
The incidents occurred on Friday evening, resulting in injuries to five individuals at different locations across the city. Two 22-year-old men were stabbed several times near Broomhouse Mosque shortly after exiting evening prayers and were taken to Edinburgh Royal Infirmary. In addition to these stabbings, there were further attacks reported on Leith Walk, as well as vandalism targeting a taxi and a petrol station. Police Scotland has confirmed that none of the injuries sustained are life-threatening and that counter-terrorism investigators are leading the inquiry.
Security footage from the night captured disturbing scenes, including a bare-chested man brandishing weapons on Leith Walk. He was seen parking partially across a bike lane, chasing a man on an e-bike, and assaulting another individual who had disembarked from a tram. Following these violent acts, the man also attempted to force entry into a pizzeria before attacking a delivery driver on an e-bike. Police arrived promptly and took control of the situation. This footage has played a crucial role in the ongoing investigation.
Public officials have expressed serious concern following the attacks. John Swinney described the incidents as a stark “wake-up call” for Scotland regarding intolerance, fearing that such hatred might be becoming normalized. Police Scotland has engaged extensively with more than 90 multi-faith organizations in Edinburgh to provide support. Superintendent Neil Wilson stressed the importance of all communities feeling safe and encouraged continued cooperation to prevent anyone from feeling marginalized or isolated due to fear or intimidation
Read the full article from The BBC here: Read More
Auto Amazon Links: No products found. Blocked by captcha.