A second man has been arrested in connection with a suspected arson attack on a mosque in East Sussex. The 25-year-old man of no fixed address was detained on Tuesday evening, following the arrest of a 46-year-old man from Littlehampton on Monday afternoon.
Emergency services were called to the mosque in Phyllis Avenue, Peacehaven, at about 9:50pm on Saturday. Sussex Police had released images showing two people wearing balaclavas spraying suspected accelerant on the entrance before setting it alight.
Both suspects have been arrested on suspicion of arson with intent to endanger life. The first suspect has been released on conditional bail whilst the second man remains in custody.
Police investigation continues
Detective Chief Inspector Mark Cullimore from the Surrey and Sussex major crime team said: "We believe there are people in the community who know who is responsible for this appalling and reckless attack and we are urging anyone with information which could be vital to our investigation, to come forward. Please contact us or ring 101, quoting Operation Spey."
Community support measures
Superintendent Rachel Swinney emphasised the force's commitment to protecting religious communities. She said: "We continue to work with our local religious communities to support them and ensure their concerns are heard and acted upon."
Sussex Police maintains a zero-tolerance approach to hate crime across the county. The force urges anyone experiencing hate or criminal behaviour to contact officers through 101 or online, with 999 reserved for emergencies.
Sources used: "PA Media" Note: This article has been edited with the help of Artificial Intelligence.
