Mosque set on fire in United Kingdom; police treat as hate crime

By Al Mayadeen English
Source: Agencies
Today 10:28
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Police in Peacehaven, UK, are investigating a mosque arson attack as a hate crime amid rising Islamophobia and calls for community unity.

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Scene of Sussex firefighters at the scene of the arson attack at the community mosque in Peacehaven, UK (X/@BPINewsOrg)

Police in southern England have launched an investigation into a suspected arson attack targeting a mosque in the coastal town of Peacehaven, East Sussex. Authorities have confirmed they are treating the incident as a hate crime.

Emergency services responded to a fire at the mosque on Phyllis Avenue late Saturday evening, following reports of flames at the entrance of the building.

CCTV footage captured two individuals, both wearing dark clothing and masks, approaching the front entrance. One of the suspects sprayed an accelerant on the doorway before setting it ablaze.

Firefighters quickly contained the fire, preventing it from spreading further. While no injuries were reported, the mosque and a nearby vehicle sustained significant damage.

BREAKING: @EastSussexFRS attended a fire at the community mosque in #Peacehaven. The fire service has now stood down. Sussex News has seen video showing the building being set alight and is awaiting an update from Sussex Police. No reports of injuries. pic.twitter.com/aVj9n5ho0c
— Sussex News - Breaking news for Sussex (@SussexIncidents) October 4, 2025

Police urge public help, release suspect images

Sussex Police released images of the two individuals believed to be connected to the mosque attack. One suspect wore a black jacket with a “Pre London” logo, while the other was seen wearing bright red gloves.

Detective Inspector Gavin Patch called the attack “an appalling and reckless act which we know will have left many people feeling less safe.”

He added, “We are treating this as an arson with intent to endanger life and are urging anyone with information to come forward. Even the smallest detail could be vital in identifying those responsible.”

Increased patrols around places of worship

Superintendent Rachel Swinney announced heightened police patrols around mosques and other places of worship across Sussex. “Sussex Police takes a zero-tolerance approach to hate crime, and there is no place for hate across the county,” she said.

A spokesperson for the mosque expressed gratitude that no one was harmed, despite the physical damage. “While the incident has caused damage to our building and vehicles, we are profoundly grateful that no one was injured,” the spokesperson said.

“This hateful act does not represent our community or our town. Peacehaven has always been a place of kindness, respect, and mutual support, and we will continue to embody those values. We ask everyone to reject division and respond to hate with unity and compassion.”

The East London Mosque also condemned the attack, noting it was the second violent incident targeting a place of worship in the United Kingdom within a week.

“We must not let the politics of hate divide us. We stand united for peace, safety, and justice,” the mosque stated.

Broader context of religious hate crimes in the United Kingdom

Liberal Democrat MP for the Lewes district, James MacCleary, described the attack as “appalling,” noting that the Peacehaven mosque serves many of his constituents and plays an important role in the community.

Police have not announced any arrests as of yet. The investigation remains ongoing, with authorities urging members of the public to provide any relevant information.