Police apprehended a suspect for allegedly committing arson with the intent to endanger lives following a fire incident at a mosque. The individual, a 46-year-old man, was taken into custody by Sussex Police on Monday afternoon.
Emergency services responded to a call at the Peacehaven mosque around 9:50 pm on Saturday. Security footage captured two individuals wearing masks and dark clothing approaching the mosque’s entrance, where they sprayed accelerant and ignited a fire.
Law enforcement and fire crews swiftly arrived at the scene, extinguishing the fire promptly. Although there were no injuries reported among the occupants, the mosque and a nearby vehicle suffered significant damage.
Detective Chief Inspector Mark Cullimore of the Surrey and Sussex Major Crime Team stated that the investigation is progressing rapidly to identify those responsible for the incident. The public is urged to provide any information, regardless of its perceived significance, by calling 999 and referencing Operation Spey.
Superintendent Rachel Swinney of Sussex Police acknowledged the distress caused within the community and assured an increased police presence at the mosque and other places of worship in Sussex to offer support and reassurance to the public.