Dozens Killed in Deadly Attack on Two Mosques in New Zealand

A series of armed attacks on two mosques in the city of Christchurch, New Zealand has resulted in numerous deaths and injuries. New Zealand’s Prime Minister has reported the death toll at 40 people. Police have announced the arrest of 4 suspects.

Early Friday morning on March 15 (Esfand 24), the city of Christchurch, New Zealand witnessed bloody attacks on two mosques in the city. As a result of these attacks, a large number of people who had gathered at these mosques for prayers were killed and injured.

New Zealand Police have not provided media with precise and definitive information on the casualty count from these two bloody attacks. New Zealand Police have spoken of a “large number of casualties.” Police have also remained silent on the possibility of additional attacks in the city.

According to the latest reports received, New Zealand’s Prime Minister has reported that at least 40 people have been killed.

This comes as reports indicate that police forces have arrested four suspects in connection with the attacks.

It is unclear whether the attacker or attackers are among those arrested or are still at large.

Armed Attack on Two Mosques

Based on reports published by news agencies citing eyewitness accounts, a white man, wearing a bulletproof vest and safety helmet, entered a mosque and opened fire on people with a machine gun.

Jacinda Ardern, Prime Minister of New Zealand, following the occurrence of these attacks, has called this day one of the “darkest days” in New Zealand’s history.

The Prime Minister of New Zealand said: “I regard these attacks as an act of violence that has no precedent in this country.”

Ardern told media that she will travel to Christchurch within the coming hours to visit the scene.

Police Appeal to the Public

New Zealand Police have asked the public to avoid traveling to the central streets of the city. Police forces have also asked the public to report any suspicious behavior to officers immediately.

Furthermore, Police have asked students to remain in their classrooms pending the complete elimination of the threat of additional attacks. All buildings of government offices in the city of Christchurch have been closed.

Lyn Dalziel, Mayor of Christchurch, said that these attacks have shocked her. She said: “I never even thought it was possible that something like this could happen in this city.”

The city of Christchurch is located in the south of New Zealand and, with a population of 350,000, is considered the third largest city in the country.

Source: DW