A mosque in East Sussex was damaged by a suspected arson attack, which police are investigating as a hate crime. The surrounding community is stunned by the news.
Firefighters raced to the mosque in Phyllis Avenue, Peacehaven, at about 9.50 pm on Saturday. Thankfully, nobody inside the building was injured.
The attack still caused distress. The building was damaged near the mosque’s main entrance, and a car was parked nearby. Police released the information to keep the public informed.
Detective Superintendent Karrie Bohanna said of the incident: “We recognise that an incident of this nature will cause fear in the community. She emphasised the psychological toll on the
The police have increased their patrol
The police have increased their patrol in and around the mosque, and are making more patrols to protect other places of worship in the county. In the meantime, the local population is vigilant.
An anonymous volunteer at the mosque told the Tahsiens World that two people had tried to enter via the front door. They saw, however, that the door was locked and could not be opened.
Then the persons emptied gallons over the door and close to one of the parked cars. The volunteer said that the car then caught fire. Two people escaped intact from the mosque.
The volunteer emphasised the danger, adding, It might have been murder. The police are therefore conducting an ongoing investigation and are promising the community of their safety.
The footage has not been verified by the Tahsiens World
Safety at places of worship has become a top concern after the deadly Manchester synagogue attack on Thursday. Two Jewish worshippers died in the attack.
Police named the attacker as 35-year-old Jihad Al-Shamie, a British citizen of Syrian descent. Officers shot him at the scene.
Tariq Jung, chair of the Brighton and Hove Muslim Forum, said the community feels deep sadness and shock. Moreover, he stressed that no worshipper should fear violence while practising their faith. Therefore, he asked faith leaders and neighbours to come together and work for peace. Finally, he urged everyone to support one another during this difficult time.
Community organisations now focus on places of worship’s safety and on building wider solidarity across the country.
The mosque attack in Peacehaven shook our neighbourhood. Brighton and Hove Stand Up to Racism said the violence did not appear out of nowhere. Moreover, they report racist and fascist groups have stirred fear along the South Sussex coast for weeks. They have waved offensive flags, stuck hateful stickers, and sprayed racist slogans across local streets.
Labour MP for Brighton Kemptown and Peacehaven
Chris Ward, Labour MP for Brighton Kemptown and Peacehaven, called the attack “disgusting.” He said the fact that no one got hurt was by chance. Furthermore, Ward urged residents to stand with victims and to challenge hate wherever they see it. He also promised local leaders would work with communities to stop further attacks.
Zoe Nicholson, leader of Lewes District Council, promised the council’s full support for Muslims in Peacehaven. She said, “Be in no doubt; we stand shoulder to shoulder with you.” In addition, Nicholson called on everyone to unite, protect neighbours, and reject hatred.
Community groups, councillors, and neighbours are now working together to keep Peacehaven safe. They will challenge racism, offer practical support, and rebuild trust. Ultimately, they want a welcoming South Sussex where everyone belongs.
