Mosque arson attack being treated as hate crime

A suspected arson at a mosque in Peacehaven, Sussex is being investigated as a hate crime.

Police have issued images of two people they want to identify.

Emergency services were called to the scene around 9:50 on Saturday night. Crews from Sussex Police and East Sussex Fire and Rescue Service promptly were able to extinguish the fire.

There were people inside the building at the time, but no injuries have been reported.

Significant damage was caused to the mosque and a nearby vehicle.

Video footage shows two people wearing masks and dark clothing approaching the front door before spraying accelerant on the entrance of the mosque and igniting a fire.

Detective Inspector Gavin Patch said: “This was an appalling and reckless attack which we know will have left many people feeling less safe.

“We are treating this as an arson with intent to endanger life and are continuing to pursue a number of lines of enquiry to identify those responsible.

“We are releasing images of two people we wish to speak with, shown in the footage, wearing distinctive clothing. We believe there are people in the community who know who these two are. If you have any information, no matter how small you think it might be, we urge you to do the right thing and come forward before any further harm is caused.

“If you have any information relating to this incident, please contact us immediately by calling 999, quoting Operation Spey.”

Superintendent Rachel Swinney said: “We understand the impact this will have on everyone in Peacehaven and across Sussex.

“There is an increased police presence at the scene and additional patrols taking place at places of worship across Sussex to provide visibility and reassurance. We will continue to engage with our religious communities to support them and ensure their concerns are heard and acted upon.

“Sussex Police takes a zero-tolerance approach to hate crime and there is no place for hate across the county."