New Zealand mosque shooting updates: Imran Khan blames Christchurch attacks on 'post-9/11 Islamophobia'

Imran Khan blames attacks on ‘Islamophobia post-9/11’

Pakistan prime minister Imran Khan also “strongly condemned” the attack by White supremacists at Christchurch that killed 49 people in two mosques. He said he blamed these terror attacks on the “current Islamophobia post-9/11” were the entire Muslim population has been blamed for the actions of a few.

“This reaffirms what we have always maintained: that terrorism does not have a religion. Prayers go to the victims and their families,” he tweeted. 

I blame these increasing terror attacks on the current Islamophobia post-9/11 where Islam & 1.3 bn Muslims have collectively been blamed for any act of terror by a Muslim. This has been done deliberately to also demonize legitimate Muslim political struggles. https://t.co/5bBREoayLz

— Imran Khan (@ImranKhanPTI) March 15, 2019

NZ’s security threat lifted to high

New Zealand’s national security threat level has undergone an enormous shift in the light of the surprise terrorist shooting attack and has been lifted from low to high.

Rare instance of gun violence in NZ

The events that took place on Friday have shocked a nation where gun violence is relatively rare, reported Bloomberg.

Even Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern said New Zealand’s national security threat level has been raised to high from low.

Trump tweets link to website

United States president Donald Trump, who the alleged shooter has named in his manifesto as someone he deeply admires, has responded in an odd fashion to the tragedy which left 49 people dead.

The US president only tweeted a link to the rightwing news website Breitbart, the founder of which, Steve Bannon, was his media adviser for a while.

As Twitterati noted, Trump did not even write a single line of condolence.

New Zealand police sets up Restoring Family Links website 

The New Zealand Police, fresh off its challenge in dealing with two mass shootings has published a slew of tweets ensuring that families grappling with the aftermath of the attacks have minimal struggle while searching for their loved ones.

1/6 Police wish to notify the public of the Restoring Family Links (RFL) website where people can register missing persons or register themselves as alive. Police have asked Red Cross to activate the website due to the serious firearms incident in Christchurch.

— New Zealand Police (@nzpolice) March 15, 2019

2/6 The RFL website is a tool where the public can self-register they are alive so family and friends know they are safe. Members of the public can also register missing persons. Police will be working with New Zealand Red Cross who is managing the website, making all...

— New Zealand Police (@nzpolice) March 15, 2019

3/6 ...appropriate enquiries to find missing persons. People will have the option to make this information visible to the public or kept private when they fill out the required form. People living in New Zealand can also register missing persons on 0800 115 019.

— New Zealand Police (@nzpolice) March 15, 2019

Australian PM calls suspect “violent, right-wing, extremist terrorist”

As the Australian identity of the man considered to be the main suspect, Brenton Tarrant, emerges, the Australian PM has been among those who have issued a call to maintain peace. He has called Tarrant “a violent, right-wing, extremist terrorist”.

Morrison, who had earlier said Australia was a country of all faiths, also criticised the rightwing Senator Fraser Anning who had blamed the New Zealand attack on immigraton.

The remarks by Senator Fraser Anning blaming the murderous attacks by a violent, right-wing, extremist terrorist in New Zealand on immigration are disgusting. Those views have no place in Australia, let alone the Australian Parliament.

— Scott Morrison (@ScoMo30) March 15, 2019

Bangladesh cricketers crouched down in team bus

Bangladesh cricket team manager Khaled Mashud Pilot spoke to the media following the shootings Christchurch. The Bangladeshi team managed to narrowly escape a shooting.

“None of us had ever imagined that such a thing would happened. We are very lucky to have escaped. There were quite a few of us in the bus, around 16 or 17, who had gone for namaz. Only two players were in the hotel, the rest of us had gone there. We had almost reached, we could see the mosque. We were fewer than 50 metres away. Had we reached 3 to 4 minutes earlier, then we would have been inside the mosque. We are very lucky to have escaped, we could see it all happen outside the mosque, just as you watch a movie. We were in the bus for eight to ten minutes. We had crouched down to escape any possible firing,” he is heard saying.

Bangladesh Team Manager Khaled Mashud Pilot speaks to the media following the incident of shooting in Christchurch. Blackcaps (NZC) and the Bangladesh Cricket Bord : Tigers (BCB) has been made to cancel the Hagley Oval Test pic.twitter.com/CH80ohDFMO

— Bangladesh Cricket (@BCBtigers) March 15, 2019

41 lost lives at Deans Avenue Mosque

“At the Deans Avenue mosque, we now know that 41 people have lost their lives. And at the Linwood mosque, 7 have lost their lives. Of the 40 people who have been treated at Christchurch Hospital, one has now passed. So the total number of people who have died in this horrendous event are 49,” said the Police Commissioner, in his briefing.

Australian police probe Tarrant

The New South Wales counter-terrorism police are investigating the background of Brenton Tarrant, a former student at Grafton High, who is believed to be the man in his late 20s who carried out at least once of the two mass shootings at Christchurch, reports say.

Accused to appear in court on Saturday

In his statement, the NZ Police Commissioner Bush said the man in his late 20s (who is believed widely to be the Brenton Tarrant, who uploaded the live stream and his manifesto) will appear in the Christchurch Court on Saturday morning. 

“Three other people were apprehended. We believe one of those persons who was armed and was at the scene may have had nothing to do with this incident, and the two other people that have been apprehended, again in possession of firearms in the general environment, we are working through to understand what their involvement is,” he was quoted by The Guardian as having said.

Police have recovered a number of firearms from both of the scenes, Linwood Avenue and Deans Avenue, he added.

Two others still being investigated: Bush

One of those arrested may have had nothing to do with the attack, New Zealand Police Commissioner Mike Bush said.

The two other people arrested in possession of firearms are still being investigated, he added.

Bush did not name the suspected attacker.

Man in late twenties charged with murder, 49 killed

A man, in his late 20s, has been charged with murder, say reports. Two others are in custody for possession of firearms. 

NZ Police Commissioner Mike Bush says 49 people have been killed in Christchurch mosque attacks.

Theresa May offers condolences

United Kingdom prime minister Theresa May offered her “deepest condolences” to the people of New Zealand in the aftermath of the shootings in Christchurch that killed 40 people.

"On behalf of the UK, my deepest condolences to the people of New Zealand after the horrifying terrorist attack in Christchurch. My thoughts are with all of those affected by this sickening act of violence." - PM @theresa_may

— UK Prime Minister (@10DowningStreet) March 15, 2019

Senator blames Muslim immigration, faces flak

In the aftermath of two shootings which killed 40 people in two Christchurch mosques, an Australian senator, Fraser Anning, has come in the face of criticism after saying that the attacks pointed to the “fear” in the city over Muslim presence. Anning released a full statement exploring his opinions on the social trends which led to this attack, ostensibly blaming Muslim people for the attack.

He also tweeted on the issue, while police were dealing with an active situation, asking, “Does anyone still dispute the link between Muslim immigration and violence?”

He claimed that the real reason behind the violence perpetrated on people in Christchurch was due to New Zealand’s immigration policy. 

48 patients injured, says Christchurch Hospital

“Forty-eight patients, ranging from young children to adults with gunshot wounds are being treated at Christchurch Hospital. Injuries range from critical to minor.  Additional patients with gunshot wounds were presented to other health facilities in the community,” a statement by the hospital reads.

“Twelve operating theatres are currently in use and due to the nature of some of the injuries, many people will need multiple surgeries.

Around 200 family members are on site awaiting news of their loved ones. Together with police we are providing support to these people,” the Hospital noted .

Britomart was false alarm, says police

Police confirm incident outside Britomart train station in Auckland was a false alarm, reported BNO News.

A controlled explosion was carried out on 2 bags. It contained scaffolding equipment.

Police confirm incident outside Britomart in Auckland was a false alarm. A controlled explosion was carried out on 2 bags. It contained scaffolding equipment.

— BNO News (@BNOFeed) March 15, 2019

Britomart station closed 

The official handle of Auckland Transport has confirmed that the Britomart Station and its surrounding areas are all closed, leading to a temporary pause in train and bus services.

This is being assumed to be because of the presence of unclaimed backpacks in the station. The bags contained explosives which were detonated by police in a controlled manner.

Due to a Police Cordon, Britomart Station and the surrounding precinct are closed. This means Trains and Buses are not operating. Southern, Western and Onehunga lines are terminating at Newmarket. Eastern Line is terminating at Panmure and The Strand. Updates to follow.

— Auckland Transport (@AklTransport) March 15, 2019

Australia to fly flags at half mast

Prime Minister Scott Morrison has announced that he will request all institutions to fly the Australian flag at half mast out of “respect and condolence” for those who were killed in New Zealand. 

New Zealand PM Jacinda Ardern had said in her press conference that she has received word from Morrison. 

Out of respect and in condolence for all those killed in the terrorist attack in New Zealand, I have asked for flags to be flown at half-mast. pic.twitter.com/0qgIrmdgoH

— Scott Morrison (@ScoMo30) March 15, 2019

Auckland explosions were ‘controlled’ detonations, say reports

The explosions heard at Auckland’s Britomart Station have been confirmed as controlled detonations, reported NZ Herald.

Britomart station blocked off to motorists, say report

A police spokesman confirmed to NZ Herald that armed police were at the Britomart Train Station site, where backpacks was found unattended.

The train station has been blocked off to motorists, the news outlet reported.

Explosion heard at Auckland’s Britomart

An explosion was heard at Auckland’s Britomart, barely moments after New Zealand prime minsiter Jacinda Ardern had finished briefing the media on the security situation in the aftermath of the Christchurch shootings.

New Zealand Herald has reported that armed police are stationed at Auckland’s Britomart Train Station. A section of Galway Street in the city has been cordoned off around two backpacks left unattended.

Act not an expression of who we are as a nation: PM

“This act is not an expression of who we are as a nation. Of course it will take time to heal. Our thoughts and our prayers are with those who were affected. We will try to retain our identity as a nation,” the PM said.

Tonight is about ensuring the security of the attackers, Ardern added.

Likely that all offenders had same ideology: New Zealand PM

“One of the offenders had publicised their ideology. We have no reason to assume that the others who have been arrested were of any other ideology,” said PM Jacinda Ardern, while addressing a press conference in the aftermath of the attack.

Two of the suspects’ cars were fitted with explosives, she said. The cars have been stripped off them, Ardern added.

Three individuals have been arrested: says Ardern

Ardern assures that the main gunman has been arrested. She adds that there have been three individuals apprehended. Police Commissioner Mike Bush had earlier said there were four people who were taken into custody.

“Members of the public can see the footage of brothers, fathers, sons being brought into hospitals,”  added Ardern.

Arrested were not on any watchlists: PM

Those arrested were not on Intelligence agency watchlists, New Zealand PM Jacinda Ardern has confirmed.

New Zealand PM confirms 40 people have died. 

New Zealand prime minister Jacinda Ardern has confirmed that 40 people have died in the two shootings.

PM confirms 40 people have died with 20 seriously injured, govt now describing it as a terror attack pic.twitter.com/J28zRM61cw

— Jane Patterson (@janepatterson) March 15, 2019

No information on death toll yet

While police have said that a “significant’’ number of people have been killed in the two shootings at Christchurch mosques, there is no information on what the exact number is. 

Local media has pegged the number of people dead between nine and 27.

Australia stands with New Zealand, says PM

Prime Minister of Australia Scott Morrisson registered his shock and sadness at the shootings.

“I condemn the violent, extremist, right-wing terrorist attack that has stolen the lives of so many innocent New Zealanders as they went about their peaceful practice of worship at their mosques in Christchurch today,” he wrote on Twitter.

Australians stand with all New Zealanders, he added.

I condemn the violent, extremist, right-wing terrorist attack that has stolen the lives of so many innocent New Zealanders as they went about their peaceful practice of worship at their mosques in Christchurch today.

— Scott Morrison (@ScoMo30) March 15, 2019

Australians stand with all New Zealanders today during this dark time where hate and violence has stolen their peace and innocence. Kia kaha (stay strong).

— Scott Morrison (@ScoMo30) March 15, 2019

YouTube star named by gunman says he is ‘sickened’

Swedish YouTube star Felix Kjellberg, popularly known as PewDiePie, has reacted to the fact that the alleged shooter Brenton Tarrant asked the viewers of his Facebook livestream to follow him, before going out on the rampage. 

“I feel absolutely sickened having my name uttered by this person,” he wrote.

Malaysian national hurt

Malaysian journalist Sumisha Naidu noted on Twitter that a Malaysian has been injured in the Christchurch mosque shootings, according to the country’s High Commission in New Zealand.

Police urge caution, refuse to discuss shooter, possible motivations

“At this stage we will not be discussing the offenders’ possible motivations or the causes of this incident,“tweeted New Zealand Police.

Police have asked all mosques nationally to shut their doors, and advised people to refrain from visiting the places of worship. 

4/6 ...information. We continue to utilise every possible resource to resolve the situation.Police work with a number of agencies in preparation for events of this nature and we have plans and procedures in place which we are following. We are receiving assistance from NZDF...

— New Zealand Police (@nzpolice) March 15, 2019

5/6 Ambulance, Fire and Emergency NZ, and wider https://t.co/OwDOISklCS 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

— New Zealand Police (@nzpolice) March 15, 2019

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

Shooter spoke to himself throughout, says report

A New York Times report describes what the live stream of the shooter showed. The videos have been taken off most social media platforms now:

“Shortly before the shooting, someone appearing to be the gunman publicly posted links to a manifesto on Twitter and 8chan, an online forum. The 8chan post included a link to what appeared to be the gunman’s Facebook page, where he said he would soon broadcast live video of the attack.

The 17-minute video, which appeared to be recorded on a helmet camera, shows his drive to the mosque, followed by a harrowing nearly two minutes of his firing on the worshipers in one of the mosques before fleeing the building and running back to his car and swapping weapons.

He then is seen re-entering the mosque and again begins shooting, continuing to methodically move through the mosque. Several victims can be seen in the footage, many lying on top of one another motionless in a corner of the room.

After another few minutes, he leaves again, gets in his vehicle and drives away, talking to himself throughout.”

Tarrant has family in Australia, say reports

Emma Partridge, a senior reporter of 9 News Sydney has revealed that the gunman allegedly involved in the New Zealand shooting is indeed ‘Brenton Tarrant’.

Partridge wrote that Tarrant has family in Grafton of New South Wales. He is believed to have been living in New Zealand for the past three years.

The gunman allegedly involved in the New Zealand shooting is Brenton Tarrant. He has family in Grafton in New South Wales and is believed to have been living in New Zealand for three years @9NewsSyd

— Emma Partridge (@em_partridge) March 15, 2019

Flights affected at Christchurch Airport 

The Christchurch Airport, which until now had been noting that operations have been going on as normal, wrote on Twitter that is “still open”. 

However, some flights have been affected. “Aviation Security has increased its presence in the terminal as a precaution. We‘re caring for a number of people who are staying in the terminal while the advice from police is to stay indoors,” it noted.

Christchurch Airport is still open however some flights have been affected. Please check with your airline or our website https://t.co/HxBwb7FTlp for the latest flight information.

Aviation Security... https://t.co/DwzaB74g46

— Christchurch Airport (@CHC_Airport) March 15, 2019

Gunman wished to show invaders ‘our land will never be their land’

The gunman, Brenton Tarrant, wrote in his manifesto that he carried out the attack to “directly reduce immigration rates to European lands”, noted news.com.au.

Quoting from this 73-page manifesto, the news portal said Tarrant has described his reasons for the attack as to “show the invaders that our lands will never be their lands, our homelands are our own and that, as long as a white man still lives, they will NEVER conquer our lands and they will never replace our people”. The emphasis on “never” is Tarrant’s own.

Gunman idolised Donald Trump, Candace Owens

The gunman was an ardent supporter of US president Donald Trump and wrote about him in his manifesto. He also mentions his unquestioning loyalty to black Republican Candace Owens.

"The gunman wrote of how he supported @realDonaldTrump 'as a symbol of renewed white identity & common purpose'...He goes on to reference @RealCandaceO: “The person who has influenced me above all is Candace Owens” https://t.co/4p6Ze9LUjY #Christchurch #ChristchurchMosqueAttack

— Michael Deibert (@michaelcdeibert) March 15, 2019

YouTube, Facebook, Reddit delete videos, photographs uploaded by shooter

BuzzFeed News reporter Ryan Mac has noted how various social media sites flagged or removed the shooter’s live stream in varying degrees of haste. 

He posted excerpts from both YouTube and Facebook’s statements on the fact that these mediums were used by the shooter.

A Reddit spokesperson told Mac that they have been actively taking down all links associated with the video “as they become aware of them” because they violate its policy around glorifying violence.

Here's Facebook's response pic.twitter.com/hdVB2pu2E8

— Ryan Mac 🙃 (@RMac18) March 15, 2019

What's bizarre is that YouTube's algo or moderators have flagged these videos as sensitive, but users are still allowed to watch them after consenting. This is the screen you see before viewing. How is broadcasting mass murder not a violation of terms of service? pic.twitter.com/5o1nIRI5dP

— Ryan Mac 🙃 (@RMac18) March 15, 2019

Here is Youtube's response:

(Btw I'm still seeing videos of the shooting being uploaded and the only search I'm running is for the alleged perpetrator's full name) pic.twitter.com/8YJ6OAzp41

— Ryan Mac 🙃 (@RMac18) March 15, 2019

Shooter most likely to be 28-year-old white man

As is now known by now, the suspect, who identified himself on Twitter as ‘Brenton Tarrant’ from Australia, had livestreamed his deadly attack on Facebook.

In a news.com.au report, the 73-page manifesto which Tarrant posted online is quoted. Tarrant, a 28-year-old has described himself as “just a regular White man”.

He said he was born “to a working class, low-income family … who decided to take a stand to ensure a future for my people”.

Lockdown on schools lifted

“Police can now confirm the lock down of schools throughout Christchurch has been lifted,” NZ police has tweeted.

“We would like to reassure members of the public that there is a large Police presence in the city and the safety of the community is our priority,” it added.

Police can now confirm the lock down of schools throughout Christchurch has been lifted. We would like to reassure members of the public that there is a large Police presence in the city and the safety of the community is our priority.

— New Zealand Police (@nzpolice) March 15, 2019

NZ cops aim to saturate area with forces

In his press conference where he announced that four have been taken into custody, New Zealand police commissioner Mike Bush said police are now seeking to “saturate” the city area to ensure that schools and other institutions can come out of lockdown.

“We will ensure that everyone who needs to go home can go home,” he said.

Awfully, awfully sad day: NZ deputy PM tweets

Deputy Prime Minister of New Zealand, Winston Peters, tweeted that this was an “awfully, awfully, sad day for New Zealand.” 

He added that there are lessons from the day which “we can call learn.”

This is an awfully, awfully, sad day for New Zealand. There are lessons here from which we must all learn.

— Winston Peters (@winstonpeters) March 15, 2019

4 in custody over mosque shootings: NZ Police 

New Zealand police, reported CNN, has said that four people (three men and one woman) are in custody over the Christchurch mosque shootings, but they “cannot presume that the danger is gone.”

New Zealand police say four people -- three men and one woman -- are in custody over the Christchurch mosque shootings, but they "cannot presume that the danger is gone". Live updates: https://t.co/kn1m4gbMyX pic.twitter.com/Ekq9rL3NEz

— CNN (@CNN) March 15, 2019

Photos of mosque emerge

Twitter user Mustafa Hamdani has uploaded an image of the outside of the Masjid al Noor mosque in central Christchurch where the attack took place. 

The gunman entered this mosque first and began shooting with an automatic weapon, leading to what police has called “multiple fatalities”.

Sad start of the day.#Christchurch #NewZealand pic.twitter.com/PozDOHt9dj

— Mustafa Hamdani (@mustafahamdani) March 15, 2019

Death toll up to 27: Unconfirmed reports

Australian channel Nine News Melbourne has reported that there may be as many as 27 deaths in the twin mosque firings in Christchurch. AFP had reported local media as having quoted nine deaths.

New Zealand cricket team tweets out condolences

“Our heartfelt condolences go out to the families and friends of those affected by the shocking situation in Christchurch,” the team wrote through its official Twitter handle.

Both the Bangladeshi and Kiwi teams and support staff groups are safe, it assured. The third Test between the two countries has been cancelled.

Our heartfelt condolences go out to the families and friends of those affected by the shocking situation in Christchurch. A joint decision between NZC and the @BCBtigers has been made to cancel the Hagley Oval Test. Again both teams and support staff groups are safe.

— BLACKCAPS (@BLACKCAPS) March 15, 2019

Photos of suspect’s weapon shared on social media

Strategic affairs analyst Divya Kumar Soti tweeted a photo of the weapon used in at least one of the mosque shootings. 

“In this picture, you can see “Gaston IV of Bearn” written over Christchurch shooter’s weaponry. Gaston was viscount of Bearn was also known as “the Crusader” and fought in Reconquista of Spain and seige of Antioch against Turk muslims during the First Crusade,” he wrote.

World watches in shock as Christchurch massacre unfolds

People from all walks of life note sadness and disbelief as reports of multiple shootings in the New Zealand city of Christchurch trickle in.

Horrified by the news of the mass shootings in two mosques in Christchurch, New Zealand. Hate knows no boundaries, especially when so heavily armed. Thinking of the shattered lives and communities, where hundreds had gathered for Friday prayers.

— George Takei (@GeorgeTakei) March 15, 2019

This has shattered my heart.
It is the result of hate and xenophobia and division.
This is our call to action.
We will stand united against the forces of hate and division in our community.
It will not be our new normal. This is not my NZ.https://t.co/ZxmS0Q0Go6

— Golriz Ghahraman (@golrizghahraman) March 15, 2019

My heart breaks for you, #Christchurch.

— Rep. Eric Swalwell (@RepSwalwell) March 15, 2019

All mosques to shut their doors: NZ Police

New Zealand police have warned all mosques countrywide to shut their doors after active shooters opened fire in two mosques in Christchurch city centre, reported CNN.

Witness Mohammed Nazir told TVNZ that he “heard the big sound, the gun” at about 1.45 p.m.

“The second shot, I run, lots of people were sitting on the floor,” he said. “The gun was (at the) front door, I run behind the mosque and I was sitting behind… and I called the police.”

According to TVNZ, Nazir saw multiple deaths and injuries, including three women on the ground outside the mosque.

Canterbury Police NZ tweeted: “We have a critical incident in Deans Ave Christchurch. Please avoid the area. We will give more in the near future.”

Mosque was ‘filled with worshippers’ when attack happened

The mosques were packed with worshippers gathering for Friday afternoon prayers, and members of the Bangladesh cricket team were arriving when the shooter opened fire, AFP has reported. 

The Masjid al Noor in central Christchurch was filled with worshippers, when the attack happened, as was a second mosque in suburban Linwood.

A Palestinian man in the mosque, who did not want to give his name, said he saw a man shot in the head.

“I heard three quick shots then after about 10 seconds it started again it must have been an automatic no one could pull a trigger that quick,” he told AFP.

Messages of solidarity and support pour in 

“They should not close the mosques in New Zealand,” wrote politician Nicholas Sarwark. Writer Wajahat Ali chipped in with the politics of the attack. Others criticised the attack on peaceful worshippers.

They should not close the mosques in New Zealand. They should open them all and every Kiwi of good will, no matter what their faith or lack thereof, should stand armed vigil.

Fuck terror.#Christchurch

— Nicholas Sarwark (@nsarwark) March 15, 2019

Let me quickly explain why the Christchurch mosque shooting affects many of us, not just Muslim communities. If the shooter's manifesto and social media feed are accurate, he was inspired by a right wing ideological infrastructure that thrives, recruits and radicalizes online 1/

— Wajahat Ali (@WajahatAli) March 15, 2019

Horrified by events in #Christchurch. To kill people peacefully gathered to pray is an act of supreme evil, and one my people have experienced too many times. Our prayers are with the community and with the families of the slain.

— Alex Ryvchin (@AlexRyvchin) March 15, 2019

Suspected shooter Australian citizen, reports say

Australian news outlet 1 NEWS has reported that the person behind the shooting is an Australian citizen. 

It is not yet known if there was more than one person involved in the attack.

Muslims a ‘miniscule minority’ in New Zealand population

Muslims constitute only about one percent of the total population in New Zealand, as per the government data .

The majority (77 percent) of New Zealand Muslims are overseas-born with the largest proportions identifying as Indian (29 percent) and as members of Middle Eastern groups (21 percent) such as Arab, Iranian and Iraqi, the Ministry of Social Development noted in its 2008 report.

Local media reports ‘at least 9 people dead’

Local media reported at least nine people were dead and the South Island city was placed in lockdown as police hunted for an “active shooter.”

“This is an evolving incident and we are working to confirm the facts, however we can confirm there have been a number of fatalities,” commissioner Mike Bush said.

He said one person was in custody but there may be other offenders and armed officers were attending a number of scenes.

Third shooting likely to have taken place outside a hospital, say unconfirmed reports

There have been reports of a third shooting outside a hospital and an unconfirmed shooting at a high school.

New Zealand-Bangladesh Test called off

The third Test between New Zealand and Bangladesh has been called off following the shooting at a mosque in Christchurch

Just in: The third Test between New Zealand and Bangladesh has been called off following the shooting at a mosque in Christchurch

— ESPNcricinfo (@ESPNcricinfo) March 15, 2019

‘No timeframe when lockdown will be lifted,’ says police 

“Due to the ongoing serious firearms incident in Central Christchurch Police would like to remind all parents and caregivers that schools across the city remain in lock down,” writes NZ Police on Twitter. 

Police has informed parents that there is no timeframe “at this stage” for when the lock down will be lifted. The children are being taken care of by schools, it assured.

1/4 Due to the ongoing serious firearms incident in Central Christchurch Police would like to remind all parents and caregivers that schools across the city remain in lock down.There is no timeframe at this stage for when the lock down will be lifted. The children are being...

— New Zealand Police (@nzpolice) March 15, 2019

2/4 taken care of by schools. On advice from Police, schools will communicate directly with parents when the lock down is lifted.The safety of the community is our priority.

— New Zealand Police (@nzpolice) March 15, 2019

3/4 We will provide updates on the incident as and when they are available and you can get these on our Facebook (link is external) page and website.

— New Zealand Police (@nzpolice) March 15, 2019

4/4 Media please note the stand up with Commissioner Mike Bush has been pushed back to 5.30pm. This will be held at the Royal Society on Turnbull Street, Thorndon, Wellington.

— New Zealand Police (@nzpolice) March 15, 2019

New Zealand PM tweets words of support

“What has happened in Christchurch is an extraordinary act of unprecedented violence. It has no place in New Zealand,” tweeted PM Jacinda Ardern. 

 Many of those affected will be members of our migrant communities – New Zealand is their home – they are us.

The person who has committed this violent act has no place here. To those in Christchurch; I encourage you to stay inside and follow the instructions of @nzpolice. The Police Commissioner will be making a public statement at 5pm. I will update everyone again later this evening.

— Jacinda Ardern (@jacindaardern) March 15, 2019

Police urge caution over sharing videos of shooting

“Police are aware there is extremely distressing footage relating to the incident in Christchurch circulating online. We would strongly urge that the link not be shared. We are working to have any footage removed,” the New Zealand police tweeted.

TVNZ quoted the police as having confirmed that there have been multiple fatalities, and that there still is an active shooter scenario playing out.

One person is in custody and there have been people killed in two mosques, one on Deans Ave and one in Linwood.

Police are aware there is extremely distressing footage relating to the incident in Christchurch circulating online. We would strongly urge that the link not be shared. We are working to have any footage removed.

— New Zealand Police (@nzpolice) March 15, 2019

Air New Zealand offers helping hand to those travelling to-and-from Christchurch

Air New Zealand has released a statement around travel to Christchurch, reported local news channel TVNZ.

“We are deeply saddened by the shooting tragedy in #Christchurch city and our thoughts go out to all those involved.

“We are offering flexibility to anyone booked to travel to or from Christchurch today.”

‘Lots of broken glass and bricks,’ says eyewitness

Speaking to CNN, witness Mohan Ibn Ibrahim said he was inside the mosque when the gunman opened fire.

“I was in the mosque. It’s a big mosque and there were more than 200 people inside. The gunmen came from the backside. Gunshots went on for a long time. We had to jump the wall to escape. I saw lots of broken glass and bricks on the backside of the mosque,” he said.

He said that he had a friend in another mosque in the area had told him a gunman had opened fire there as well and five people were dead.

VIDEO: Bangladesh team escaped from a mosque near Hagley Park

An ESPN Cricinfo reporter who was with the Bangladeshi team when they managed to escape the site of the shooting, has uploaded a video of the team fleeing.

“They ran back through Hagley Park back to the Oval,” Mohammad Isam tweeted.

Bangladesh team escaped from a mosque near Hagley Park where there were active shooters. They ran back through Hagley Park back to the Oval. pic.twitter.com/VtkqSrljjV

— Mohammad Isam (@Isam84) March 15, 2019

Twitter suspends alleged shooter’s account

Twitter has suspended an account purportedly used by New Zealand mass shooting suspect, a journalist has reported.

Facebook too has suspended the account that was used to live stream the massacre.

#BREAKING: Twitter has suspended an account purportedly used by New Zealand mass shooting suspect, following suspension by Facebook of account that was used to live stream massacre.

— Matthew Keys (@MatthewKeysLive) March 15, 2019

‘No one must go to a mosque under any circumstances,’ says police commissioner

The Guardian reported that police commissioner Mike Bush has warned: “No one in the country must go to a mosque under any circumstances.”

Chirstchurch locals on lockdown converge in Twitter thread

Several people sitting through the lockdown commented in a tweet asking people not to reveal details on the shooters’ identities. Many asked for others to pray for them.

Cops note ‘multiple fatalities’

New Zealand police say ‘multiple fatalities’ have taken place in the mosque shooting.

Police issue multiple warnings

Police warn worshippers not to visit mosques ‘anywhere in New Zealand’.

Other offenders in shootings: Jacinda Ardern

New Zealand PM Jacinda Ardern says may be ‘other offenders’ in Christchurch shootings, reports AFP.

NZ prime minister confirms one person apprehended in mosque shooting

New Zealand prime minister Jacinda Ardern condemned the incident and said, “This is one of New Zealand’s darkest days. It was an unprecedented act of violence.”

“Police has apprehended a person, but I don’t have further details of him yet,” she added.

Jacinda Ardern,NZ Prime Minister on shooting at a Mosque in Christchurch: This is one of New Zealand's darkest days. It was an unprecedented act of violence. Police has apprehended a person, but I don't have further details of him yet. pic.twitter.com/xzTHBjk4Xq

— ANI (@ANI) March 15, 2019

Unidentified person taken into custody, say reports

A person has been taken into custody, says a CNN report. Details on his or her identity are, however, unavailable still.

"New Zealand's darkest day" Can't give any details about the person in custody. Could be other offenders @jacindaardern @NewshubNZ

— Emma Jolliff (@emtvnews) March 15, 2019

New Zealand police asks people to stay vigilant

“We urge New Zealanders to stay vigilant and report any suspicious behaviour immediately to 111,” wrote New Zealand police on Twitter.

3/5 We urge New Zealanders to stay vigilant and report any suspicious behaviour immediately to 111. We are mobilising resources nationally and support is being brought into the District. We are still working to resolve this incident and we continue to urge Christchurch...

— New Zealand Police (@nzpolice) March 15, 2019

4/5 ...residents to stay inside. We ask all mosques nationally to shut their doors, and advise that people refrain from visiting these premises until further notice.

— New Zealand Police (@nzpolice) March 15, 2019

5/5 There will be a media stand-up at 5pm today at the Royal Society Te Aparangi on Turnbull Street, Thorndon, Wellington.

— New Zealand Police (@nzpolice) March 15, 2019

Second shooting reported

New Zealand media reports of a shooting at a second mosque in the city of Christchurch.

Shooter allegedly live streamed rampage

Reports identify shooter as Brenton Tarrant, 28, of Australia. He allegedly streamed footage of himself live on Facebook.

Man who identified himself as Brenton Tarrant, 28, of Australia filmed self just before live streaming mass shooting at mosque in Christchurch, New Zealand pic.twitter.com/UowqUymsD2

— Matthew Keys (@MatthewKeysLive) March 15, 2019

Suspect supported Trump, say reports

The mosque shooting suspect, reports say, wrote that he supported US president Donald Trump, but not in every regard.

Mosque shooter wrote he chose firearms to draw media attention, say reports

Reports claim that Christchurch mosque shooting suspect wrote in a manifesto, “I chose firearms for the affect it would have on social discourse,” also said he hoped to draw media attention and hoped to influence political matters in the United States

Six dead in shooting, reports say

Reports claim that six have died in Christchurch. 

Reports of 6 dead in Christchurch. Deans ave closed between Moorhouse and Riccarton Road. Schools in lockdown. Triage centre set up at hospital @thomasmeadnz live on the scene @NewshubNZ @MitchMcCannNZ pic.twitter.com/seOjd7oK6Y

— Emma Jolliff (@emtvnews) March 15, 2019

Bangladesh cricket team escapes mosque shooting, say reports

Bangladesh’s cricket team escaped unscathed after a shooting at a mosque in central Christchurch, an official told AFP on Friday.

Bangladesh Cricket Board spokesman Jalal Yunus said most of the team were bussed to the mosque and were about to go inside when the incident happened.

“They are safe. But they are mentally shocked. We have asked the team to stay confined in the hotel," he told AFP.

Player Tamim Iqbal tweeted that it was a “frightening experience” and that there were “active shooters”.

Police call this an ’evolving situation’

There are no official information on casualties yet.

1/2 A serious and evolving situation is occurring in Christchurch with an active shooter.Police are responding with its full capability to manage the situation, but the risk environment remains extremely high.Police recommend that residents across Christchurch remain off...

— New Zealand Police (@nzpolice) March 15, 2019

New Zealand police tweets on ongoing situation 

“Police are currently responding to reports of shots fired in central Christchurch at around 1:40 pm,” it wrote.

In response to a serious ongoing firearms incident in Christchurch all Christchurch schools have been placed into lockdown. Police urge anyone in central Christchurch to stay off the streets and report any suspicious behaviour immediately to 111.

— New Zealand Police (@nzpolice) March 15, 2019

All schools placed on lockdown

Local media told AFP there were multiple casualties at one mosque and said another had been evacuated, and there were reports that members of the Bangladesh cricket team were also present at one site.

Police commissioner Mike Bush said all schools in the city had been placed on lockdown in response to “a serious ongoing firearms incident”

Police swarm Christchurch mosque amid shooting

 Armed police in New Zealand swarmed central Christchurch Friday amid a shooting at a mosque in the South Island city.

“A serious and evolving situation is occurring in Christchurch with an active shooter,” police said in a statement.