Police are treating a fire that caused significant damage to a mosque in East Sussex as suspected arson attack and a hate crime - as detectives release images of two people they wish to identify.
The blaze, which broke out shortly before 10pm on Saturday at a mosque in Peacehaven, damaged the building’s front entrance and a vehicle parked outside. No one was injured in the incident, Sussex Police confirmed.
The force said footage showed two people wearing masks and dark clothing appearing to approach the front door before spraying accelerant on the entrance of the mosque and igniting a fire.
Images circulating online showed a burnt-out car at the entrance to the building.
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.”
Police patrols have been been stepped up in the area and around other places of worship across East Sussex to provide reassurance.
“There is already an increased police presence at the scene and there are also additional patrols taking place to provide reassurance at other places of worship across the county,” Detective Bohanna said.
“Sussex Police takes a zero-tolerance approach to hate crime and there is no place for hate across the county.”
The force is working with local leaders to support the affected community while forensic teams continue to examine the site. Officers are appealing to anyone who may have witnessed suspicious activity or captured footage near the mosque on Saturday evening to come forward.
The cause of the fire remains under investigation.
The suspected arson attack has been widely condemned.
Home Secretary Shabana Mahmood said in a post on X: “At a time like this, we must stand united. This country's greatest strength has been its ability to build one nation from many communities. Attacks against Britain's Muslims are attacks against all Britons and this country itself.”
Chris Ward, the Labour MP for Brighton Kemptown and Peacehaven, said: “Appalled by the disgusting arson attack on Peacehaven mosque last night.
“That there were no injuries is purely by chance. I have spoken with Sussex Police this morning, and I’m very grateful to them and East Sussex Fire and Rescue Service for their response.
“This violence and hatred has no place in our peaceful, tolerant local community. We will root it out and we stand in solidarity with all affected.”
The leader of the local council, Lewes District, said she was “shocked and saddened” by the fire.
Councillor Zoe Nicholson added: “This is a deeply distressing incident that strikes at the heart of our community.
“On behalf of Lewes District Council, I want to express our unwavering support and solidarity with the Muslim community in Peacehaven and across our district. Be in no doubt, we stand shoulder to shoulder with you.”
