Three more men have been arrested by police investigating the arson attack on a mosque in Peacehaven earlier this month.
Sussex Police said this afternoon (Wednesday 22 October): “Detectives investigating an arson attack at Peacehaven Mosque have arrested three further suspects.
“Emergency services were called to the building, in Phyllis Avenue, at around 9.50pm on Saturday 4 October to reports of two individuals spraying accelerant on the front door before setting it alight.
“People were inside the mosque at the time but fortunately no one was injured.
“An investigation was launched by the Surrey and Sussex Major Crime Team and four men were subsequently arrested.
“All four have now been released with no further action to be taken.
“Following extensive further inquiries, including a number of public appeals for information and a reward offered by Crimestoppers, three separate suspects have now been arrested on suspicion of arson with intent to endanger life.
“All three men – a 34-year-old and a 42-year-old, from Peacehaven, and a 38-year-old, from Seaford – remain in custody at this time.”
Detective Chief Inspector Mark Cullimore, of the Major Crime Team, said: “This has been a rigorous, thorough investigation, recognising the significant distress the incident caused to the victims and wider community.
“We are continuing to gather any available evidence and are exploring multiple lines of inquiry.
“Our officers are continuing to engage with the community to offer reassurance and support and we would encourage anyone who has been impacted or has any information that could help us to speak to an officer or report to us online or via 101.
“Alternatively, you can report anonymously via the independent charity Crimestoppers on 0800 555111.”
Are the police still regarding this as a hate crime? There’s no longer any mention of it