Updated 06/10/2025 @12:55 - Police issue images after arson attack at Peacehaven mosque

Police have released images of two people they want to identify following an arson attack at a mosque in Peacehaven.

Emergency services were called to the building in Phyllis Avenue at around 9.50pm on Saturday, 4 October, after reports of a fire.

CCTV footage shows two individuals wearing masks and dark clothing approaching the front door of the mosque. They are seen spraying an accelerant on the entrance before setting it alight.

Sussex Police and East Sussex Fire and Rescue Service attended the scene and quickly extinguished the blaze. No one inside the building was injured, but the fire caused significant damage to the mosque and a nearby vehicle.

Detectives have launched an investigation and are appealing for information to help identify the suspects. One of the individuals was wearing a black jacket with a white “Pre London” logo on the chest, while the other wore bright red gloves.

Footage of people Sussex Police would like to speak - CREDIT: (C) SUSSEX POLICE 2025

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.

“If you have concerns for your safety or experience any hate or criminal behaviour, please speak to an officer or contact us online or by calling 101. Always dial 999 in an emergency.”

Information can be reported on the Sussex Police online or on 101, quoting Operation Spey.

Sussex Police Assistant Chief Constable Paul Court said: “This was an appalling and reckless attack which we know will have left many people feeling less safe.

“We will continue to have an increased police presence in Peacehaven and there are also additional patrols taking place at places of worship across Sussex.

“We will continue to engage with all communities impacted by this incident to support them and ensure their concerns are heard and acted upon.

“Let me be clear: There is no place for hate and division in our communities.

“Those who are responsible for causing these offences will be dealt with robustly by the police and put before the courts.”

Sussex Police and Crime Commissioner Katy Bourne said: “The arson attack on the Peacehaven Mosque was the height of hateful criminality.

“Local residents and worshippers will be shocked that this has happened in their community, but it is reassuring and heartwarming to see people condemning the attack and calling for calm.

“Sussex Police have put an enhanced presence at the scene and extra patrols at other places of worship across the county.

“Whatever the motivation of these two people there can be no justification for their cowardly and potential fatal actions and anybody who knows who they are should contact the police to ensure they are taken off our streets as soon as possible.”

A spokesperson for East Sussex Fire and Rescue Service said: “At around 21:45 on Saturday 4 October East Sussex Fire and Rescue Service were called to reports of a fire at the Mosque, Phyllis Avenue, Peacehaven.

“Sussex Police were informed and attended the incident. On arrival crews discovered that a car was well alight, with the fire affecting the Mosque building.

“Firefighters from Preston Circus and Roedean wore breathing apparatus and used firefighting foam to extinguish the fire.

“Evidence from the scene suggests the fire was started deliberately. There are no reports of any injuries or members of the public affected.

“A joint investigation will continue today with Sussex Police assisted by the Fire and Rescue Service.”

Leader of East Sussex County Council, Keith Glazier, said: “The crime at Peacehaven Mosque last night is horribly shocking and will be felt deeply by so many across East Sussex but especially by our Muslim community.

“We are now working with our Sussex Police, East Sussex Fire & Rescue and Lewes District Council to support an investigation into this hate crime, and to ensure that our community remains a safe and peaceful place for all to live, work and worship.

“I cannot say too strongly or too often that we oppose racism and hatred directed at any group of people and will continue to work with the community and faith leaders to ensure that everyone feels welcome, supported and able to thrive.”

Councillor Zoe Nicholson, Leader of Lewes District Council, said: “I am shocked and saddened by the fire at Peacehaven mosque.

“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.

“Sussex Police is investigating, and I encourage anyone with information about this incident to contact the police.”