Police appeal after 3am Edinburgh race attack

Published on 03/03/2013 11:49

A man was hospitalised after suffering a racist attack on his way home from a night out.

• A 28-year-old man was hospitalised after a racist attack in Edinburgh city centre

• Assault on Indian man took place on west end of Princes Street at 3am

The 28-year-old Indian man was walking with two friends in the west end of Princes Street, Edinburgh, at around 3am today when a man approached him from behind.

He made a racist comment before punching the 28-year-old and knocking him to the ground, Lothian and Borders Police said.

The victim was taken to Edinburgh Royal Infirmary where he was treated for facial injuries.

Police said the attacker is white, around 5ft 8in with short dark hair and a muscular build. He was wearing a dark-coloured jacket, dark trousers and white trainers.

Detective Sergeant Mark McCulloch said: “This has been an entirely unprovoked assault which has left a young man requiring hospital treatment.

“We are appealing for anyone who may have been in the area at the time, and who might recognise the description of the suspect, to contact us.

“The area would have been busy with taxis and people walking home from nights out, so we are keen to talk to anyone who might have some further information to come forward.

“This is being treated as a hate crime, and we are offering the man the relevant support and assistance at this time.”

Anyone with information can contact officers on 101 or anonymously via Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.