Second man arrested over mosque arson attack

A scorched car outside the mosque. It is parked in front of the entrance steps, which are covered in black soot and have partially melted railings.Image source, Eddie Mitchell
Image caption,

The fire caused extensive damage

  • Published

A second man has been arrested over an arson attack on a mosque in East Sussex.

The building in Phyllis Avenue, Peacehaven, was badly damaged by the fire at about 21:50 BST on Saturday. Nobody was injured.

On Tuesday police arrested a 25-year-old man of no fixed address on suspicion of arson with intent to endanger life.

A 46-year-old man from Littlehampton arrested on Monday afternoon, also on suspicion of arson with intent to endanger life, has been released on bail.

A firefighter spraying a hose into the right rear window of a burned car at night. The photo is taken from behind and to the right of the vehicle.Image source, Eddie Mitchell
Image caption,

Two men have now been arrested in connection with the incident

Det Ch Insp Mark Cullimore said: "We believe there are people in the community who know who is responsible for this appalling and reckless attack and we are urging anyone with information which could be vital to our investigation, to come forward.

"Please contact us or ring 101, quoting Operation Spey."

Supt Rachel Swinney added: "We continue to work with our local religious communities to support them and ensure their concerns are heard and acted upon.

"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."

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