UK Mosque Targeted in Suspected Hate Crime Arson Attack: Police Release Images of Suspects

Sussex Police released images of two masked individuals wearing dark clothing.

United Kingdom:

Police announced Sunday they are investigating a suspected arson attack at a mosque in southern England as a "hate crime," occurring just days after a fatal attack on a synagogue.

Authorities responded to the incident at the mosque in the coastal town of Peacehaven late Saturday evening.

Although no injuries were reported, the fire caused damage to the mosque's front entrance and a vehicle parked outside the building.

Following the incident, Sussex Police distributed surveillance images of two masked individuals dressed in dark clothing and requested public assistance in identifying them.

Detective Inspector Gavin Patch described the fire as 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," Patch stated.

This incident follows Thursday's attack on a synagogue in the northern city of Manchester where two people died and three others sustained serious injuries, with investigators suggesting a potential connection to Islamist extremism.

A representative from the Peacehaven mosque expressed that "we are profoundly grateful that no-one was injured," while calling for "everyone to reject division and respond to hate with unity and compassion."

"This hateful act does not represent our community or our town," the spokesperson emphasized.

Interior minister Shabana Mahmood described the attack as "deeply concerning."

"Attacks against Britain's Muslims are attacks against all Britons and this country itself," Mahmood stated on social media.

Phil Rosenberg, president of the Board of Deputies of British Jews, also condemned the mosque fire, calling for greater solidarity.

"Every faith community has the right to worship free from fear. Our country is better than this," Rosenberg said.

"Over recent weeks there has been a lot of focus on how we have become a divided kingdom. But we are the United Kingdom. And we need to move forward against hate together."