The UN Secretary-General António Guterres has urged the international community to ‘stand united against anti-Muslim hatred’ following a mass shooting in New Zealand on Friday targeting two mosques, which has left at least 49 dead and many others wounded, some critically.
“I am saddened and strongly condemn the shooting of innocent people as they prayed peacefully in mosques in New Zealand,” tweeted the UN chief, expressing his “deepest condolences to the victims’ families”.
“Today and every day, we must stand united against anti-Muslim hatred, and all forms of bigotry and terror,” he stressed.
In a statement issued Friday, the UN’s Spokesperson said Mr. Guterres was shocked and appalled by the terrorist attack, recalling the “sanctity of mosques, and all places of worship. He calls upon all people on this holy day for Muslims, to show signs of solidarity with the bereaved Islamic community.”
I’m saddened & strongly condemn the shooting of innocent people as they prayed peacefully in mosques in New Zealand. I express my deepest condolences to the victims’ families. Today and every day, we must stand united against anti-Muslim hatred, & all forms of bigotry & terror.
— António Guterres (@antonioguterres) March 15, 2019
A gunman, who police have described as being in his late 20s, has been arrested and charged with murder. According to news reports, he live-streamed himself via a head-mounted camera online, firing at worshippers inside the Al Noor mosque in the largest city on the South Island of New Zealand, Christchurch. A second attack also took place at the city’s Linwood Mosque.
According to news reports, police have asked the public not to share the “extremely distressing” footage posted by the gunman online.
Meanwhile, according to the UN, Facebook has reportedly taken down the gunman’s Facebook and Instagram accounts, which reportedly contained racist and anti-immigrant views.
Courtesy: UN
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