UPDATE: A UK mosque in Peacehaven was devastated by fire late Saturday night, with two individuals trapped inside during a suspected hate crime. This alarming incident, which police are treating as arson, highlights the rising tide of violence against religious communities in the UK.
Emergency services responded to the blaze shortly before 10 PM local time, with firefighters arriving at the scene as flames engulfed the entrance of the mosque. The mosque’s chairman and a fellow worshipper, both in their 60s, narrowly escaped after hearing a loud explosion outside. They fled just moments before the fire consumed the main entrance.
According to a voluntary mosque manager, who spoke under condition of anonymity, two masked individuals attempted to force open the mosque’s door before dousing it with gasoline and igniting it. “They could have easily died,” he stated, emphasizing the reckless intent of the assailants. “These people came with full intent to cause maximum damage.”
The mosque has been a vital part of the local community since it opened four years ago, serving about 10 to 15 worshippers during evening prayers. On the night of the attack, the two elderly men were enjoying tea after the prayers. “The mosque is usually a very friendly and relaxed environment,” the manager noted.
Surveillance footage captured the suspects arriving at the mosque, where they were seen pulling on the door handle and pouring gasoline before lighting the fire. The damage extended not only to the mosque but also to a taxi belonging to the chairman, who relies on the vehicle for his livelihood. “Unfortunately, just a shell of his vehicle is left,” the manager lamented.
While no physical injuries have been reported, local law enforcement officials assert that the emotional and psychological impact on the Muslim community will be profound. Detective Superintendent Karrie Bohanna of Sussex Police confirmed that an increased police presence will be maintained at places of worship across the county to reassure local residents.
In a statement on social media, James MacCleary, the Liberal Democrat MP for Lewes, condemned the incident: “Appalling to hear about this fire at the mosque in Peacehaven. It is used by my constituents and is an important part of the local community. Police are treating it as a hate crime.”
This incident follows a troubling pattern of hostility, as the mosque had previously faced vandalism and verbal abuse. “Last August, we were targeted twice with eggs thrown at the building, and racial slurs shouted at us,” the manager reported. “But we never expected an attack on this level. The community right now is on their toes. They feel unsafe; they are paranoid.”
The timing of this arson is particularly alarming, coming just days after a deadly attack outside a synagogue in Manchester during Yom Kippur, where two Jewish worshippers were killed. Prime Minister Keir Starmer condemned that violence and emphasized the need to combat rising hatred in the UK.
As investigations continue, community leaders and local authorities are calling for unity and vigilance against hate crimes. Residents are urged to remain alert and report any suspicious activity as they seek to reclaim their sense of safety and peace in the wake of this shocking event.
The situation remains fluid, and police are appealing to the public for any information regarding the suspects. Further updates are expected as investigations progress.
