Police in Scotland have launched a hate crime investigation after an SNP campaigner was attacked by a group of men in what is being treated as a racially motivated incident.
The activist was left requiring stitches after his head was smashed into a wall during the assault. Officers confirmed they are treating the attack as a racially aggravated hate crime and are actively pursuing the investigation.
The SNP condemned the attack in strong terms, with party figures calling it a deeply disturbing incident that has no place in Scottish society. The campaigner, who has not been named in reports, was targeted by a group of men who subjected him to racial abuse before the violence escalated.
Hate crime in Scotland has been a growing concern in recent years, with the Hate Crime and Public Order (Scotland) Act 2021 expanding protections and placing greater emphasis on police recording and investigating such offences. Attacks on political campaigners add another layer of concern, raising questions about the safety of those who put themselves forward for public and community roles.
The SNP has a long history of promoting diversity within its ranks and has fielded candidates and activists from a wide range of ethnic backgrounds. Attacks on members carrying out ordinary campaign work are seen as particularly troubling by the party.
Police Scotland urged anyone with information about the incident to come forward, stressing that racially motivated violence will be taken seriously and thoroughly investigated. No arrests have been confirmed at this stage.
The attack has drawn widespread condemnation from across the Scottish political spectrum, with politicians from multiple parties expressing solidarity with the victim and calling for those responsible to be brought to justice.
Anyone with information is encouraged to contact Police Scotland directly or reach out anonymously through Crimestoppers.