Two Mosque Arson Attempts Rock Northamptonshire and Sussex
Police are hunting suspects after shocking arson attempts targeted mosques in Northamptonshire and Sussex over the weekend.
Man Charged Over Kettering Mosque Arson Attempt
A 43-year-old Northampton man has been charged with attempted arson after trying to set fire to a mosque’s front door in Kettering.
Arif Ali Rafiq, who lives on Harlestone Road and was born in the UK, faces charges of arson with intent to endanger life. The attack happened on Sunday afternoon, October 5.
Rafiq is due to appear at Northampton Magistrates’ Court on October 7.
Sussex Man Arrested After Mosque Fire Attempt in Peacehaven
In a separate incident, Sussex Police arrested a 46-year-old man on Monday, October 6, in connection with an arson attempt at a mosque in Peacehaven.
The suspect is also charged with arson with intent to endanger life, police confirmed.
Authorities Treat Attacks as Hate Crimes
Both attacks have been branded serious hate crimes as local communities reel from the frightening incidents.
Police vowed to bring those responsible to justice, condemning the attacks as threats to community safety and harmony.
