Police investigating the shocking arson attack that devastated a mosque in Peacehaven have made further arrests as the community reels from what authorities are treating as a deliberate hate crime.
Community in Shock After Deliberate Fire
The Peacehaven Islamic Centre was severely damaged in what eyewitnesses described as a "terrifying" blaze that erupted overnight. Fire crews battled for hours to control the flames that gutted much of the building, leaving the local Muslim community without their place of worship.
Sussex Police confirmed that multiple individuals are now in custody following what they termed a "complex and fast-moving investigation" into the incident that has sent shockwaves through the coastal town.
Political Leaders Condemn Attack
The attack has drawn condemnation from across the political spectrum, with local MP Maria Caulfield describing the incident as "utterly deplorable." In a statement, she emphasised that "such hatred has no place in our community."
Community leaders have reported an outpouring of support from residents of all faiths, with local churches offering temporary space for prayers and community gatherings.
Heightened Security Measures
In response to the attack, police have increased patrols around religious sites across Sussex. A spokesperson for Sussex Police stated: "We are treating this with the utmost seriousness and are working closely with the mosque committee and community leaders."
The investigation continues as forensic teams work to determine the exact cause of the fire and gather evidence for what is expected to be a major prosecution case.
Local residents have begun organising fundraising efforts to support the rebuilding of the mosque, with community leaders emphasising their determination not to be intimidated by acts of hatred.
