Two men have been charged in connection with an arson attack on a mosque in Peacehaven, East Sussex, earlier this month.
The suspects, aged 38 and 34, have been remanded in custody and are expected to appear before Westminster Magistrates’ Court. They face charges of arson with intent to endanger life after a fire broke out on 4 October, damaging the front entrance of the mosque and a nearby parked car. Fortunately, no injuries were reported.
Investigators said CCTV footage showed two masked individuals spraying what appeared to be an accelerant outside the building moments before the blaze. Authorities later released the footage as part of an appeal for information that led to several arrests. A third suspect, a 42-year-old man, was questioned and later released on police bail pending further investigations.
Police have urged the public not to speculate online about the incident or share unverified information that could interfere with ongoing legal proceedings. Detectives continue to gather evidence to establish the full circumstances surrounding the attack.
In response to the arson incident and other recent hate-related crimes, the government has announced a £10 million funding boost to strengthen the security of Muslim communities and places of worship. The investment will cover the installation of CCTV cameras, alarm systems, reinforced doors, and secure fencing across vulnerable locations nationwide.
During a visit to the Peacehaven mosque, the Prime Minister emphasized the importance of protecting every community from acts of hatred and division. He stated that the new funding demonstrates the government’s commitment to ensuring that all citizens, regardless of faith, can live freely and safely.
The Home Secretary, who accompanied the Prime Minister on the visit, reaffirmed that attacks on places of worship would not be tolerated. She encouraged faith groups to apply for security grants under the new protection program.
Authorities continue to appeal for witnesses and anyone with information related to the Peacehaven arson attack to come forward. The case highlights ongoing concerns about rising hate crimes and the government’s efforts to counter them through both justice and prevention initiatives.
