Police investigate deliberate fire at Guru Nanak Gurdwara Sahib temple in Leith

Police are appealing for witnesses following a suspicious fire in which took place between 12.30am and 5.05am this morning at the Guru Nanak Sikh Temple in Sheriff Brae.

Officers on patrol were alerted to the building being alight and the Scottish Fire and Rescue Service responded to extinguish the flames. While no one was injured, the temple’s front door sustained fire damage, while part of the interior was damaged by the smoke.Inquiries into the full circumstances surrounding this incident are ongoing and the fire is being treated as deliberate.

Detective Inspector Clark Martin from Gayfield CID said, “Fortunately, the fire was extinguished relatively quickly and no one was injured, but nevertheless we are treating this incident with the utmost seriousness.

“Anyone who remembers seeing any suspicious activity around the temple, or in the Sheriff Brae area during the early hours of Tuesday morning, should contact police immediately.

“In addition, anyone with any further information relevant to this investigation is also asked to come forward.”

Inspector Andy Johnson of Leith Police Station said, “At this time we do not know if this has been a random and reckless act, or a targeted attack on the temple.

“In addition to maintaining a continued dialogue with staff within the temple, and the wider Sikh community, we will have a high-visibility presence in the area while this investigation is conducted to engage with the public and offer reassurance.

“If you believe you know something that can assist with the ongoing inquiry into this incident then please speak to the officers on patrol, contact us via 101 or make an anonymous report to Crimestoppers.”

Those with information can contact Gayfield CID via 101 and quote incident number 385 of the 28th August. Alternatively, an anonymous report can be made to the charity Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.

The Church of Scotland extended its deepest sympathy to Edinburgh’s Sikh community.

Rt Rev Susan Brown, Moderator of the General Assembly of the Church of Scotland, said: “How sad that a place of worship should be the target of such a hateful act.  I am glad no one was injured and extend sympathy to the Sikh community in Edinburgh.

“We recognise the actions of a small minority do not reflect the good relations that exist with your local community. There is no room in Scotland for intolerance.”