Do you recognize this man? Inverness cafe releases artist’s impression of suspected hate crime yob

An Inverness cafe has released new pictures of men believed to have committed a hate crime.

The Bridge Street coffee spot has become a popular haunt for its regulars since opening three years ago.

However, the business has recently been subject to a string of hate crimes.

Owners Tristan Aitchison and Fernando Basaldua Bazaldua recently told The Press and Journal that 10 of the incidents have been recorded in the last 12 months.

Tristan and Fernando opened Xoko bakehouse and coffee bar to provide a safe and inclusive place for locals and visitors.

But on Saturday, the city-centre business was subjected to an attack as staff worked inside. The pride flag, flying outside the cafe, was torn down and the main window was spat on.

Now, in a bid to catch the yobs responsible, owners have called upon Thailand-based forensic artist Hew Morrison.

Forensic expert called upon to catch Inverness hate crime yobs

Originally from the Highland capital, Mr Morrison is an expert in forensic imaging and facial identification and volunteered to help the cafe.

He created an artist’s impression of the person thought to be responsible.

Now, Xoko bosses have released the images and urged anyone who may recognise their face to come forward.

A statement posted online said: “On the night of October 12 and the next morning at 2.53am our property was vandalised and our windows spat on.

“This, unfortunately, is not isolated. We have repeatedly been the target of hate incidents, 10 in little over a year.

“These include spitting, vandalism, and hate speech.

“We are therefore releasing this information in an effort to identify those responsible.”

The suspects are also described as follows:

• Male 1: Roughly in his late teens-early 20s. Dressed in a light-coloured, hooded jacket, possibly Stone Island.
• Male 2: Roughly in his late teens-early 20s. Build, large.
• Male 3: Roughly in his late teens-early 20s. Build, slim.

Those with information can call Police Scotland on 101 referencing Xoko, 13 Bridge Street, Inverness or can visit: https://www.scotland.police.uk/secureforms/contact/

Investigation launched into hate crime

Officers have launched a probe into the incident which is being treated as a hate crime.

A Police Scotland spokesperson said: “An investigation is under way after police received a report of a theft and vandalism at a cafe in Bridge Street, Inverness.

“The incident occurred on Saturday, October 12, 2024.

“Officers are treating the incident as a hate crime and inquiries are ongoing.”

Police have been contacted for further comment on this incident.