By Charlotte Webster-
Sussex Police have confirmed they are treating a suspected arson attack on a mosque in Peacehaven, East Sussex, as a hate crime.
Emergency services at the scene on Saturday night. Pic: Eddie Mitchell
Emergency services were called to the fire at the building on Phyllis Avenue around 9:50 p.m. on a recent Saturday evening, after reports of a deliberate fire. The incident caused damage to the mosque’s front entrance and completely destroyed a vehicle parked directly outside the door. Authorities are appealing to the public for any information regarding the shocking incident.
AD: Capeesh Restaurant
The police investigation is currently fast-moving, with officers urgently seeking anyone with footage from the area. This includes residents who possess CCTV, Ring doorbell recordings, dashcam clips, or mobile phone videos captured around the time of the incident.
Disturbingly, a volunteer from the mosque told the BBC that two individuals, allegedly wearing balaclavas, attempted to enter the locked building before pouring a liquid at the entrance and near the car. They then set this material alight, narrowly missing two people who were inside the building at the time. Thankfully, no one was harmed during the terrifying attack.
The burnt-out car in front of the mosque. Pic: Eddie Mitchell
Police said no one was harmed. Pic: Eddie Mitchell
AD: Oysterian Sea Food Restaurant And Bar
Police have acknowledged the significant distress the events have caused within the local community.
Detective Superintendent Karrie Bohanna stressed that Sussex Police operate with a zero-tolerance approach to hate crime across the county.
She emphasized the force fully understands the anxiety and impact this act will have on the Muslim community, especially considering recent events like the attack outside a synagogue in Manchester. Therefore, officers have substantially increased their presence at the scene in Peacehaven to provide reassurance to locals.
There are also additional patrols being conducted at other places of worship throughout East Sussex.
The investigation, named Operation Spey, remains a high priority for the police force.Officials are urging anyone who has safety concerns or experiences any form of hate or criminal behaviour to contact them immediately.
Individuals possessing information about this specific East Sussex mosque hate crime should contact Sussex Police online or call 101, referencing Operation Spey.
Alternatively, information can be reported anonymously to CrimeStoppers. The police remain committed to finding the perpetrators of this despicable East Sussex mosque hate crime and ensuring justice is served.
Incidents like the East Sussex mosque hate crime highlight the continuing need for vigilance and community cohesion against all forms of prejudice. For more on the official police appeal, please visit the Sussex Police website.
AD: Heritage And Restaurant Lounge Bar