Two drug dealing brothers have been jailed after petrol bombing a van and setting fire to neighbouring gardens in a “brazen” attack.

Ashley Khan and Nathan Thomas were linked to the bombing of a pick-up van after residents were woken late in the evening by shattering glass and saw their shrubbery ablaze.

Khan, 31, and Thomas, 33, were found responsible for the explosion after a three-week trial.

The pair were also convicted of possession of cocaine with intent to supply after a large amount of the drug was found at Khan’s address.

Sussex Police senior investigating officer Detective Inspector Sharon Ford said: "Following an extensive and complex investigation, we have managed to put two dangerous individuals behind bars.

"The impact of this crime on the victims and the local community has been significant, with residents of the usually quiet street shaken by the brazen acts committed by Khan and Thomas.

"We want to express our gratitude to the community for their support and assistance during our investigation.

The Argus: Ashley Khan, left, and Nathan ThomasAshley Khan, left, and Nathan Thomas (Image: Sussex Police)

"The eyewitness accounts provided were instrumental in helping us narrow our search and bring those responsible to justice."

Neighbours in Graham Avenue, Mile Oak, were stirred at around 11pm on June 19 last year by the sound of explosions and shattering glass outside their homes.

The explosions were caused by petrol bombs launched at a white Ford Transit van parked on the street. The vehicle was set alight and significantly damaged while the fire spread to nearby shrubs and gardens.

CCTV and forensics linked Khan, of Rodmell Avenue, Saltdean, and Thomas, of no fixed address, to the attack.

When the pair were arrested police also found large quantities of cocaine as well as cannabis. The pair were further arrested on suspicion of drug offences.

A three-week trial at Chichester Crown Court found Khan and Thomas guilty of conspiracy to commit arson and possession of cocaine with intent to supply.

Khan was also found guilty of possession of cannabis.

At Hove Crown Court last month Khan was jailed for five and a half years. His brother received a four year sentence.