Table of Contents
- Investigation Launched
- CCTV Footage Released
- Community Response
- Police Statement
- Reporting Information
Authorities have initiated a hate crime investigation following reports of a suspected arson attack at a mosque.
Surveillance footage captures two men with face coverings arriving at the Peacehaven Community Mosque on Saturday night.
A burnt-out vehicle in front of the Community Mosque in Peacehaven
A masked individual appears to pour an accelerant over the entrance
A man runs out from inside to seek safety
The footage appears to show one perpetrator, clad in a black jacket, approaching the front steps while holding a green container.
He seems to splash the entrance steps with an accelerant before they ignite in flames.
Within moments, the vehicle has also erupted into flames.
A man who was inside the mosque escapes in fear, seeking safety.
It remains unclear how many individuals were present in the building when the fire broke out.
Fire crews responded to the chaotic scene, and a significant police presence continues to be felt in the area.
Footage from the scene depicts a burnt-out vehicle being doused by firefighters.
A mosque member informed The Sun Online: “There was an attack on the mosque; several individuals wearing balaclavas detonated a vehicle outside the mosque and set the front ablaze.”
“This was a targeted assault,” he asserted.
“There is now a considerable police presence here.”
Sussex Police Detective Superintendent Karrie Bohanna stated: “This is a rapidly evolving investigation, and we encourage anyone with relevant information to come forward.
“This includes anyone with CCTV, ring doorbell, dashcam, or mobile phone footage from the area during the incident.
“We recognize the anxiety this has caused within the community, especially among the Muslim community.
“There is already an enhanced police presence at the scene, and additional patrols are being conducted to provide reassurance at other places of worship across the county.
“Sussex Police adopts a zero-tolerance stance on hate crimes, and there is no place for hatred in our county.
“If you have concerns for your safety or witness any hate or criminal behavior, please approach an officer or contact us online or by dialing 101. Always call 999 in case of emergency.”
Anyone with information about the arson is encouraged to report to Sussex Police online or call 101, referencing Operation Spey.
Alternatively, you can reach out to CrimeStoppers anonymously at 0800 555 111.
Fire crews were dispatched to the chaotic scene at XXXpm
It is unclear how many individuals were inside the building
The vehicle turned into a fireball within seconds
Two men arrived in the same vehicle they later set ablaze
