Police looking for two people in connection with Peacehaven mosque fire
The incident is being treated as suspected arson and a hate crime
Pictures have been released by detectives after a mosque was targeted in a suspected arson attack in East Sussex.
The images show two people police want to speak to about a fire at Peacehaven Community Centre last night (Saturday 4th October 2025).
There were no injuries, but the building's front entrance and vehicles were damaged in an incident that is being treated as a hate crime.
Detective Inspector Gavin Patch from Sussex Police said:
“This was an appalling and reckless attack which we know will have left many people feeling less safe.
“We are treating this as an arson with intent to endanger life and are continuing to pursue a number of lines of enquiry to identify those responsible.
“We are releasing images of two people we wish to speak with, shown in the footage, wearing distinctive clothing. We believe there are people in the community who know who these two are. If you have any information, no matter how small you think it might be, we urge you to do the right thing and come forward before any further harm is caused.
“If you have any information relating to this incident, please contact us immediately by calling 999, quoting Operation Spey.”
Superintendent Rachel Swinney from Sussex Police said:
“We understand the impact this will have on everyone in Peacehaven and across Sussex.
“There is an increased police presence at the scene and additional patrols taking place at places of worship across Sussex to provide visibility and reassurance. We will continue to engage with our 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.”
A spokesperson for the mosque said:
"We are deeply saddened by the shocking arson attack that took place at Peacehaven Community Centre on the evening of Saturday October 4.
"While the incident has caused damage to our building and vehicles, we are profoundly grateful that no-one was injured.
"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."
Reaction to the incident
Mothin Ali, deputy leader of the Green Party, is calling for clarification as to whether the suspected arson attack is being treated as terrorism:
"The police need to urgently seek clarity on the motives of this attack and whether this hate crime constitutes an act of terrorism.
"People were inside the mosque when it was firebombed and people in this community will be feeling frightened and targeted for their faith."
The Home Secretary, Shabana Mahmood, has posted this statement on social media.
The Attorney General Richard Hermer KC has shared his support and solidarity with the Muslim community of Peacehaven.
Chris Ward, the Labour MP for Brighton Kemptown and Peacehaven, said:
"Appalled by the disgusting arson attack on Peacehaven mosque last night.
"That there were no injuries is purely by chance. I have spoken with Sussex Police this morning, and I'm very grateful to them and East Sussex Fire and Rescue Service for their response.
"This violence and hatred has no place in our peaceful, tolerant local community. We will root it out and we stand in solidarity with all affected."
The leader of the local council, Lewes District, said she was "shocked and saddened" by the fire.
Councillor Zoe Nicholson said: "This is a deeply distressing incident that strikes at the heart of our community.
"On behalf of Lewes District Council, I want to express our unwavering support and solidarity with the Muslim community in Peacehaven and across our district. Be in no doubt, we stand shoulder to shoulder with you."