Police arrest man over suspected arson attack on UK mosque

By Aysu Bicer

LONDON (AA) - A 46-year-old man has been arrested in connection with an arson attack at a mosque in Peacehaven, a town in East Sussex, England.

The man was detained on Monday afternoon on suspicion of arson with intent to endanger life and is currently in police custody, according to Sussex police on Monday.

Detective Chief Inspector Mark Cullimore from the Surrey and Sussex Major Crime Team said in a statement: “The investigation is progressing at pace, and we are pursuing all lines of enquiry to identify those responsible for this appalling and reckless attack.

“We are continuing to appeal for information from the public in relation to the incident. If you have any knowledge, no matter how small you think it might be, we urge you to contact us immediately by calling 999, quoting Operation Spey.”

Superintendent Rachel Swinney added: “We acknowledge the serious distress and concern this has caused in our communities.

“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.”

Emergency services were called to the mosque on Phyllis Avenue on Saturday evening.

CCTV footage showed two people wearing masks and dark clothing approaching the front door before spraying an accelerant and igniting a fire.

Sussex Police assisted firefighters in extinguishing the fire. No one was injured inside the mosque, but the fire caused extensive damage to the structure and a nearby vehicle.