John Swinney visits Edinburgh mosques and meets victims of alleged anti-Muslim attacks
‘No one in Scotland should fear being targeted because of who they are’ - John Swinney
First Minister John Swinney met victims of Friday’s alleged anti-Muslim attacks in Edinburgh as he visited the city’s Broomhouse Mosque.
He said they had been "deeply traumatised" by what happened to them and warned Friday's incident could have "enormous consequences for cohesion within our community".
Mr Swinney said: "I have spoken to some of the young men who were injured as a consequence of this act on Friday evening, they are not only physically injured but they are deeply traumatised by the attack.”
The First Minister said he had grown up nearby. "I used to kick footballs around in this community. This was always a very welcoming, inclusive community, a community that was brought together, so it's heartbreaking to experience what we're experiencing now."
He also went on to visit Annandale Mosque to meet members of the local community and senior mosque leaders.
A 36-year-old white Scottish man was arrested on Friday night after a series of attacks in different parts of the city, including Sighthill, Telford Road and Leith Walk, which left five people injured. He was later charged in connection with the attacks.
Mr Swinney said: “I unequivocally condemn the heinous attacks in Edinburgh, and my thoughts are firmly with all those who have been affected. Let me be absolutely clear, no one in Scotland should fear being targeted because of who they are.
“Any form of hatred, prejudice, intolerance or violence on our streets is completely unacceptable – and perpetrators will be brought to justice.”
He said the government was working closely with Police Scotland to ensure appropriate support was in place for public safety following the attacks across the city.
He said: “I am particularly mindful of the impact recent events can have on those already feeling vulnerable, and I understand that many people will be feeling anxious.
“I want to give them my complete assurance that my government stands firmly in solidarity with Muslim communities across the country. We will do everything we possibly can do to ensure everyone in every community feels safe, protected and included and we will always stand against those who would seek to divide our communities.
“Acts of hatred and division will not define Scotland, our shared values of respect, inclusion and compassion will. Together, we must continue working together to strengthen trust and understanding in all of our communities.”
Superintendent Neil Wilson, of Police Scotland Edinburgh division, who accompanied the First Minister on his visits, said the investigation was being led by Counter Terrorism Policing Scotland.
He said: “We recognise the concerns felt within all communities, including those who experienced and witnessed these horrific attacks, and we understand concerns may be heightened at this time.
“Community cohesion is a partnership effort. Since Friday, we have engaged with over 90 multi-faith organisations and community leaders in Edinburgh and across Scotland. Local policing officers have visited businesses affected by the incident and will continue to do so.
“We will closely monitor the situation to ensure the safety and well-being of all communities, and we are prepared to respond promptly to any emerging issues.”
Meanwhile, Edinburgh North Eastern & Leith SNP MSP Ben Macpherson told a community event in Leith that hatred had no place in Leith, Edinburgh or anywhere else in Scotland.
He said: “The horrific attacks that took place on Friday were utterly appalling. My thoughts are with the people who've been hurt and everyone affected. I’m also grateful to the police for their response to the situation, and their ongoing engagement locally.
“Leith is one of the most diverse, vibrant places in our country. For decades it has been a place where people from different backgrounds, faiths and cultures live side by side, positively and peacefully, with respect, care, and kindness.
"We will not allow violence or extremism to divide us or stoke fear - we’re too strong in our diversity for that. The people of Leith are responding by showing solidarity with all of our diverse communities - and I have been in touch with our local Muslim leaders and am actively working to support them.
"We can all help to stand up for our diverse society by calling out any far right rhetoric and being pro-actively anti-racist.”