Horror as 'darkest day' in New Zealand sees multiple deaths after mosque attacks
Scenes of shock and horror are being played around the world as more details of Friday's attacks on two mosques in Christchurch, New Zealand, which resulted in multiple deaths, are revealed.
New Zealand's Prime Minister, Jacinda Ardern, called the incident one of the country's "darkest days".
While police have not yet confirmed the death toll, they said there were "multiple and significant" deaths.
There was a lockdown across Wellington and Christchurch, with children being kept in schools and shops being closed.
Police in New Zealand, who are unarmed, have called it an unprecedented attack.
Four people have been taken into custody.
On social media, people expressed shock.
So appalled that an Australian terrorist has been responsible for the horrific violence in New Zealand today. Not surprised unfortunately, but devastated. Devastated for everyone involved. #ChristchurchTERRORISTattack
— Annaliese McDonald (@Ansaliese) March 15, 2019
new zealand is so peaceful maybe the cops had to check thrice before even accepting that there's a mass shooting going on
— shawarma (@followkarnare) March 15, 2019
still cant get this out of my head... this stuff doesnt happen in christchurch... let alone new zealand...
— key (@onceryujin) March 15, 2019
The scenes out of New Zealand this evening (their afternoon) are horrific. No matter where you are, stop and be thankful to see your loved ones, friends and family and realize every day might be their last. Images like the ones down there are chilling and itโs so sad to see.
— Jamie Larounis (@TheForwardCabin) March 15, 2019
Sad to hear the news about shootings at mosques in New Zealand ๐
— Mack Schrock (@schrockmr) March 15, 2019
These displays of pure hatred need to stop. Being Muslim does not make you a terrorist. Walking into a mosque and shooting innocent people for being different from you makes you a terrorist!