Authorities in the United Kingdom are currently probing a suspected arson incident targeting a mosque in southern England, treating it as a potential hate crime amid a rise in attacks on religious institutions.
Local law enforcement responded to reports of a fire at a mosque located on Phyllis Avenue in Peacehaven, East Sussex, shortly before 10pm (22:00 GMT) on Saturday evening.
The blaze caused damage to the mosque’s main entrance and a nearby vehicle, though fortunately, no injuries were reported.
Visual evidence circulating online depicts a severely burned car positioned at the mosque’s entrance.
According to a CNN report citing a volunteer mosque manager, two individuals wearing balaclavas attempted to force entry by prying open the mosque’s door. They then doused the steps with petrol and ignited the fire while two people were still inside the building.
A mosque representative expressed the community’s profound sorrow over the “disturbing” attack. They emphasized gratitude that no one was harmed despite the damage to property.
“This act of hatred does not reflect the values of our community or town. Peacehaven has long been known for its spirit of kindness, respect, and solidarity, and we remain committed to upholding these principles,” the statement affirmed.
They further urged the public to reject division and respond to hatred with unity and empathy.
Detective Superintendent Karrie Bohanna acknowledged the incident’s impact on the Muslim community, noting an increased police presence at the scene and additional patrols around other local places of worship to ensure safety.
“Sussex Police maintains a strict zero-tolerance policy toward hate crimes. Such acts have no place in our county,” Bohanna declared.
Potential Terrorism Investigation
Mothin Ali, deputy leader of the Green Party, stressed the importance of determining the attackers’ motives and whether the incident qualifies as an act of terrorism.
“With people inside the mosque during the firebombing, the community understandably feels vulnerable and targeted because of their faith,” Ali remarked.
Chris Ward, Labour MP for Brighton Kemptown and Peacehaven, condemned the “horrific” attack, highlighting that the absence of injuries was a matter of luck.
“Violence and hatred have no place in our peaceful and inclusive community. We are committed to eradicating such threats and stand united with those affected,” Ward stated.
This attack follows a recent violent incident at a synagogue in northern Manchester, where a vehicle ramming and stabbing resulted in two fatalities and three serious injuries.
The Muslim Council of Britain denounced the mosque arson, expressing deep shock and concern over the Islamophobic nature of the attack. They called on authorities to enhance security measures for all religious venues.
The council noted that this event is part of a troubling trend of violence and intimidation, referencing a stabbing of an Imam in Hounslow last week and numerous bomb threats and coordinated hate campaigns targeting mosques nationwide.
Meanwhile, the East London Mosque emphasized on social media the necessity for solidarity among all communities-Muslims, Jews, Christians, and people of all beliefs and none-in opposing extremism, intolerance, and violence.
The Board of Deputies of British Jews also condemned the attack, affirming that every faith group deserves to worship without fear and asserting that the nation must rise above such acts.
These assaults on places of worship occur amid heightened tensions in the UK, following months of protests concerning asylum seekers and a social media movement known as #OperationRaisetheColours.
Recently, participants in this campaign have displayed the English flag featuring St George’s Cross and Union Jacks on motorway bridges, lampposts, roundabouts, and storefronts across the country. Additionally, red crosses have been spray-painted over the white stripes of zebra crossings.
While some view this initiative as an expression of patriotism, it has been linked to racist incidents, including the appearance of offensive graffiti.
