Detectives investigating a report of arson at a mosque in Peacehaven have made an arrest.
Sussex Police say a 46-year-old man was arrested on Monday afternoon (6 October) on suspicion of arson with intent to endanger life. He is currently in custody.
Emergency services were called to the building in Phyllis Avenue around 9.50pm on Saturday, 4 October.
CCTV footage shows two people wearing masks and dark clothing approaching the front door, spraying an accelerant, and setting it alight.
Crews from Sussex Police and East Sussex Fire and Rescue Service arrived quickly and extinguished the blaze. No one inside was injured, but the mosque and a nearby vehicle sustained significant damage.
Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer has condemned the attack, saying he is “appalled” by what has happened.
Detective Chief Inspector Mark Cullimore from the Surrey and Sussex Major Crime Team said: “The investigation is progressing at pace, and we are pursuing all lines of enquiry to identify those responsible for this appalling and reckless attack.
“We are continuing to appeal for information from the public in relation to the incident. If you have any knowledge, no matter how small you think it might be, we urge you to contact us immediately by calling 999, quoting Operation Spey.”
Superintendent Rachel Swinney said: “We acknowledge the serious distress and concern this has caused in our communities.
“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.”
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