Counter Terrorism Policing South East (CTPSE) is now leading an investigation into an arson which took place at Peacehaven Mosque in Sussex on 4 October.
As a result of information and evidence that has come to light during ongoing enquiries, CTPSE has now taken the lead for this investigation and will continue to work to establish the motivation for this offence.
This relates to an incident where a fire was ignited outside the mosque in Phyllis Avenue.
Two men – Ricky Ryder, 38, of Richington Way in Seaford, and Jack Slowey, 34, of Mayfield Avenue in Peacehaven - were previously charged with arson with intent to endanger life and were remanded in custody following a hearing at Westminster Magistrates’ Court. They are due to appear at the Central Criminal Court on 14 November.
An additional arrest was made on Friday, 31 October where a 69-year-old man from Newhaven was detained in connection with this investigation. He was bailed until 30 January 2026 pending further enquiries.
CTPSE will continue to work closely with Sussex Police, building on their extensive and thorough investigation up until this point.
Detective Chief Superintendent Claire Finlay, Head of CTPSE, said: “I appreciate the concern an incident of this nature has caused to those living locally. There has been a huge amount of work by the Surrey and Sussex Major Crime Team up until this point and also significant reassurance work carried out by officers within the community. We will continue to progress this investigation at pace.”
Superintendent Rachel Swinney, from Sussex Police, said: “We continue to work closely with Counter Terrorism Policing South East as we recognise the impact this incident continues to have on the public.
“We have officers in place to support the community and they are ensuring any concerns are heard and acted upon.
“I’d like to take this opportunity to thank those local people have who supported and assisted officers with this investigation.”
If you have any information which could assist the investigation, please visit the public portal.
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