Four Arrests Made After Arson Attack on Peacehaven Mosque

Detectives investigating a suspected arson attack on a mosque in Peacehaven have made four arrests as enquiries continue.

Emergency services were called to the building in Phyllis Avenue around 9.50pm on Saturday, 4 October, after reports of a fire.
Footage shared online appeared to show two people wearing masks and dark clothing approaching the front door before spraying accelerant and setting the entrance alight.

Police and crews from East Sussex Fire and Rescue Service were quickly on the scene and managed to extinguish the flames.
Thankfully, no one inside the mosque at the time was injured, but the blaze caused significant damage to the building and a nearby vehicle.

Since Monday (6 October), detectives from the Surrey and Sussex Major Crime Team have arrested four men — aged 46, 27, 25 and 22 — on suspicion of arson with intent to endanger life.
All four have been released on conditional bail while investigations continue.

Detective Chief Inspector Mark Cullimore said:

“Our investigation continues at pace and we have been carrying out extensive enquiries including house-to-house visits, forensic work and gathering intelligence.
We are determined to identify and arrest those responsible for this shocking attack and continue to urge anyone with information that could be vital to come forward.”

Superintendent Rachel Swinney added:

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

Anyone with information is urged to contact Sussex Police, quoting Operation Spey, either online or by calling 101.