Suspected Arson Attack at East Sussex Mosque Investigated as Hate Crime

Emergency Services Respond to Peacehaven Blaze

Sussex Police are currently investigating a suspected arson attack at a mosque on Phyllis Avenue in Peacehaven, East Sussex, as a hate crime. The incident, which took place shortly before 10 pm (22:00 GMT) on Saturday, October 4, 2025, saw emergency services called to reports of a fire at the religious establishment.

Footage, including doorbell video, captured two masked individuals approaching the mosque's entrance, spraying an accelerant, and then igniting a blaze. The fire caused damage to the front entrance of the mosque and a car parked outside, which was reportedly burnt out. Despite people being inside the building at the time, no injuries were sustained, with one individual seen fleeing to safety in the footage.

Investigation Underway, Suspects Sought

Sussex Police are treating the incident as both a hate crime and 'arson with intent to endanger life'. Detective Superintendent Karrie Bohanna described the investigation as 'fast-moving' and confirmed an increased police presence at the scene, alongside additional patrols at other places of worship across the county to provide reassurance. Detective Inspector Gavin Patch stated, 'This was an appalling and reckless attack which we know will have left many people feeling less safe.'

Authorities have released images of two individuals they wish to identify in connection with the attack. One suspect was reportedly wearing a distinctive black jacket with a 'Pre London' logo, while the other had bright red gloves. Police are appealing to the public for any information, including CCTV, dashcam, doorbell, or mobile phone footage, to assist with 'Operation Spey'.

Widespread Condemnation and Community Impact

The attack has been met with strong condemnation from various figures and organisations:

• A spokesperson for the mosque expressed being 'deeply saddened' by the 'shocking' attack, stating, 'This hateful act does not represent our community or our town.' They also conveyed gratitude that no one was injured and urged the community to 'reject division and respond to hate with unity and compassion.'
• Home Secretary Shabana Mahmood called the incident 'deeply concerning' and urged people to 'stand united,' adding, 'Attacks against Britain's Muslims are attacks against all Britons and this country itself.'
• Mothin Ali, Deputy Leader of the Green Party, questioned whether the attack constituted 'an act of terrorism,' highlighting that people inside the mosque would feel 'frightened and targeted for their faith.'
• Chris Ward, Labour MP for Brighton Kempton and Peacehaven, described the attack as 'disgusting' and 'appalled,' noting it was 'purely by chance' that there were no injuries.
• The Muslim Council of Britain (MCB) expressed being 'profoundly shocked and alarmed' and called for robust protection for all places of worship, citing a 'disturbing pattern of violence and intimidation' against Muslim communities.

Sussex Police have confirmed that the incident is not currently being treated as terror-related. The mosque will remain closed as forensic teams continue to examine the site.