Sussex Alerts Lewes Police - Appeal to identify suspects in connection with Peacehaven arson

Monday 6th October 2025

Sussex Alerts Lewes Police

Appeal to identify suspects in connection with Peacehaven arson - latest information

Police investigating a report of arson at a mosque in Peacehaven have issued images of two people they wish to identify.

Emergency services were called to the building in Phyllis Avenue around 9.50pm on Saturday, 4 October.

Footage showed two people wearing masks and dark clothing approaching the front door before spraying accelerant on the entrance of the mosque and igniting a fire.

Emergency crews from Sussex Police and East Sussex Fire and Rescue Service promptly attended the scene and were able to extinguish the fire. Fortunately those inside at the time were not injured, but significant damage was caused to the mosque and a nearby vehicle.

Detectives are investigating and have issued images of the two people seen in the footage that they wish to identify.

One wore a distinctive black jacket with a Pre London logo in white on the chest. The second wore bright red gloves.

Detective Inspector Gavin Patch 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 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 www.sussex.police.uk or by calling 101. Always dial 999 in an emergency.”

Information can be reported on the Sussex Police online www.sussex.police.uk or on 101, quoting Operation Spey.

A joint statement from both Police, and partner agencies has been issued, this can be read here.

Further updates on this investigation will be published on our Sussex Police website.