Emergency services were called to the mosque on Phyllis Avenue at around 9.50pm on Saturday, after reports of a fire at the building’s entrance.
Earlier, Sussex Police released CCTV images showing two individuals wearing balaclavas, allegedly spraying an accelerant on the mosque’s doorway before setting it alight.
According to police, a 46-year-old man from Littlehampton was arrested on Monday and has since been released on conditional bail. A second suspect, a 25-year-old man of no fixed address, was detained on Tuesday evening and remains in custody. Both men have been arrested on suspicion of arson with intent to endanger life.
Detective Chief Inspector Mark Cullimore, from the Surrey and Sussex Major Crime Team, urged members of the public to assist with the investigation.
“We believe there are people in the community who know who is responsible for this appalling and reckless attack,” he said. “We are urging anyone with information which could be vital to our investigation to come forward. Please contact us or ring 101, quoting Operation Spey.”
Superintendent Rachel Swinney said police continue to work closely with local religious communities.
“We are supporting those affected and ensuring their concerns are heard and acted upon,” she said. “Sussex Police takes a zero-tolerance approach to hate crime, there is no place for hate across the county.
“If you have concerns for your safety or experience any hate or criminal behaviour, please speak to an officer, contact us online, or call 101. Always dial 999 in an emergency.”
The investigation remains ongoing.
