A 36-year-old man, identified as Lewis Hawkes, has been brought before Edinburgh Sheriff Court facing five counts of attempted murder tied to terrorism. The charges follow a series of attacks directed at individuals and locations across Edinburgh this past Friday night.
During the private court appearance, Hawkes did not enter a plea and was ordered to remain in custody. In addition to the attempted murder charges, he is accused of robbery, assault, breach of the peace, and culpable and reckless behavior.
The incidents included a stabbing outside the Broomhouse Mosque, where two men sustained multiple wounds following prayers. Three additional victims were assaulted on Leith Walk, and a taxi along with a petrol station were also identified as targets. Police Scotland is continuing its investigation under the guidance of counter-terrorism officials. Authorities have since reached out to over 90 faith-based organizations and local businesses across the city to provide support and gather information.
