UN Secretary-General Condemns Christchurch Twin Shooting, Expresses Condolences

UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres condemned on Friday two mass shootings that occurred in mosques in Christchurch, New Zealand, earlier in the day and called for fighting anti-Muslim hatred

MOSCOW (UrduPoint News / Sputnik - 15th March, 2019) UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres condemned on Friday two mass shootings that occurred in mosques in Christchurch, New Zealand, earlier in the day and called for fighting anti-Muslim hatred.

"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," Guterres tweeted.

Earlier on Friday, a gunman opened fire at two mosques in Christchurch, New Zealand. At least 49 people have been killed, according to media reports, and more than 40 others have been injured.

Four people suspected of involvement in the attack have been detained and one person has been charged with murder. The country's Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern called the shooting a terrorist act, saying it was the country's "darkest day."

Throughout the day, the international community has been actively voicing its condolences to the families of the victims of the tragedy. Leaders from dozens of nations have condemned the attack, while authorities of certain countries have even increased security near their countries' religious sites.