Detectives from Counter Terrorism Policing South East (CTPSE) are now leading the investigation into the arson at the Peacehaven mosque on Saturday 4 October.
Sussex Police said this afternoon (Tuesday 4 November): “As a result of information and evidence that has come to light during ongoing inquiries, CTPSE has now taken the lead for this investigation and will continue to work to establish the motivation for this offence.
“This relates to an incident where a fire was ignited outside the mosque in Phyllis Avenue.
“Two men, Ricky Ryder, 38, of Richington Way, in Seaford, and Jack Slowey, 34, of Mayfield Avenue, in Peacehaven, were previously charged with arson with intent to endanger life.
“(They) were remanded in custody following a hearing at Westminster Magistrates’ Court. They are due to appear at the Central Criminal Court on Friday 14 November.”
The Central Criminal Court, in London, is better known as the Old Bailey.
Sussex Police added: “An additional arrest was made on Friday 31 October.
“A 69-year-old man, from Newhaven, was detained in connection with this investigation.
“He was bailed until Friday 30 January 2026 pending further inquiries.
“CTPSE will continue to work closely with Sussex Police, building on their extensive and thorough investigation up until this point.”
Detective Chief Superintendent Claire Finlay, the head of CTPSE, said: “I appreciate the concern an incident of this nature has caused to those living locally.
“There has been a huge amount of work by the Surrey and Sussex Major Crime Team up until this point and also significant reassurance work carried out by officers within the community.
“We will continue to progress this investigation at pace.”
Superintendent Rachel Swinney, from Sussex Police, said: “We continue to work closely with Counter Terrorism Policing South East as we recognise the impact this incident continues to have on the public.
“We have officers in place to support the community and they are ensuring any concerns are heard and acted upon.
“I’d like to take this opportunity to thank those local people have who supported and assisted officers with this investigation.”
