Shooting inside 2 mosques, dozens feared dead in Christchurch, New Zealand
Christchurch, Mar 15 (IBNS): Dozens of people are feared killed in shootings inside at least two city mosques on Friday, media reports said.
New Zealand Police confirmed the shootings had taken place at two mosques - one at Deans Avenue and the other at Linwood Avenue - in Christchurch.
"Those locations remain locked down.We can confirm there have been a number of fatalities. We cannot at this stage confirm the precise number but it is significant," the police tweeted.
6/6 ... these premises until further notice.The lock down of schools through Christchurch has been lifted.We thank the public for their ongoing cooperation.We would like to reassure members of the public that there is a large Police presence in the city.
— New Zealand Police (@nzpolice) March 15, 2019
Three men and one woman have been arrested.
"Christchurch residents are strongly urged to stay indoors and keep safe, and monitor the Police website and social media for further information," the police said.
"At this stage we will not be discussing the offenders’ possible motivations or the causes of this incident. We have asked all mosques nationally to shut their doors, and advise that people refrain from visiting these premises until further notice," the police said but added that the lock down of schools through Christchurch had been lifted.
One of New Zealand's darkest days: PM Ardern
New Zealand Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern tweeted: "What has happened in Christchurch is an extraordinary act of unprecedented violence. It has no place in New Zealand. Many of those affected will be members of our migrant communities – New Zealand is their home – they are us."
What has happened in Christchurch is an extraordinary act of unprecedented violence. It has no place in New Zealand. Many of those affected will be members of our migrant communities – New Zealand is their home – they are us.
— Jacinda Ardern (@jacindaardern) March 15, 2019
"It is clear that this is one of New Zealand's darkest days," she told reporters.
Narrow escape for Bangladeshi cricket team
Bangladeshi cricketers, who are currently visiting the country to play against the home side, escaped the attack.
Cricketer Tamim Iqbal said the team had a close shave.
"Entire team got saved from active shooters!!! Frightening experience and please keep us in your prayers #christchurchMosqueAttack," Tamim tweeted.
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