UK Mosque Attack
UK mosque set on fire with two people inside; police probe suspected hate crime
A mosque in Peacehaven, East Sussex, was set on fire late Saturday while two people were still inside, in what police are investigating as a suspected hate crime, authorities said.
According to a voluntary mosque manager, who asked not to be named, two people wearing balaclavas attempted to force open the mosque’s door before pouring petrol on the steps and setting it alight, he told CNN.
Sussex Police said emergency services were called to the fire at a building in Phyllis Avenue at about 9:50 p.m. local time on Saturday, October 4. The blaze caused damage to the front entrance of the mosque and a vehicle parked outside.
No casualties were reported, police confirmed.
Detective Superintendent Karrie Bohanna said, “This is a fast-moving investigation, and we are urging anyone with relevant information to report it to us.
“This includes anyone with CCTV, ring doorbell, dashcam, and mobile phone footage in the area at the time.
“We understand the concerns this has caused within the community, and the impact that will be felt by the Muslim community as a result.
“There is already an increased police presence at the scene and there are also additional patrols taking place to provide reassurance at other places of worship across the county.
“Sussex Police takes a zero-tolerance approach to hate crime and there is no place for hate across the county.
“If you have concerns for your safety or experience any hate or criminal behaviour, please speak to an officer or contact us online or by calling 101. Always dial 999 in an emergency.”
The suspected arson attack came just two days after a deadly assault on a synagogue in Manchester, where two people were killed. The suspect, 35-year-old Jihad Al-Shamie, a British citizen of Syrian descent, was shot dead at the scene, police said.
Tariq Jung, chair of the Brighton and Hove Muslim Forum, said, “Everybody is deeply saddened and appalled by the events in Manchester and Peacehaven. I hope faith leaders and others within the community will come together to try and bring peace,” he told BBC Radio Sussex.
Campaign group Brighton and Hove Stand Up to Racism said in a statement: “We are appalled and horrified to learn of the racist arson attack on Peacehaven Mosque after evening prayers on Saturday 4 October. This comes just days after the horrific antisemitic attack at a synagogue in Manchester which left two people dead and many injured.”
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