Authorities in the UK are investigating a suspected arson attack at a mosque in Peacehaven, East Sussex, as a “hate crime” following the incident that occurred on Saturday evening.
The attack took place at the mosque on Phyllis Avenue at approximately 9:50 PM BST on Saturday, October 4th. Fire crews were called to extinguish the resulting blaze. Fortunately, no one inside the building was injured; however, the front entrance of the mosque and a vehicle parked outside sustained damage.
In the ongoing hunt for those responsible, Sussex Police have released photographs of two masked men they wish to identify. One of the suspects can be seen wearing a black jacket with a white ‘Pre London’ logo on the chest, and the other is distinguishable by his bright red gloves.
A volunteer from the mosque claimed that two people tried to enter the front door, but found it locked. They then allegedly poured a liquid near the entrance and a car parked outside before setting it ablaze. The volunteer expressed deep concern, stating that the incident “could have been murder,” as two people who were inside the mosque at the time managed to escape.
Detective Inspector Gavin Patch condemned the event, calling it an “appalling and reckless attack which we know will have left many people feeling less safe.” He confirmed that the police are treating the incident as one of “arson with intent to endanger life” and are following multiple leads to identify the perpetrators.
In response to the attack, police presence at the site has been increased, and additional patrolling is being undertaken at places of worship across the UK to reassure local residents.
A spokesperson for the Peacehaven mosque expressed profound gratitude that no one was injured. They appealed to the public to “reject division and respond to hate with unity and compassion,” and stressed that the “hateful act does not represent our community or our town.”