&nbsp;A Turkish citizen who was wounded during deadly attacks at two mosques in the New Zealand city of Christchurch on March 15 has died, Turkey's foreign minister said on Thursday, raising the death toll from the shooting to 51.

"We have unfortunately lost our citizen... who was critically wounded in the heinous attack in <a href="https://www.google.com/url?client=internal-uds-cse&amp;cx=006054055338965708568:09spwrlibei&amp;q=https://www.wionews.com/world/new-zealand-police-charge-man-in-christchurch-over-possession-of-explosives-214989&amp;sa=U&amp;ved=2ahUKEwiIqtHfwf7hAhUSjuYKHR7PA7IQFjACegQIDxAC&amp;usg=AOvVaw3VcnfVs3hdJLdsFVDCBuLY">Christchurch, New Zealand</a>," Mevlut Cavusoglu said on Twitter.

The man's brother told Turkey's state-run Anadolu news agency that the man had been taken to surgery on Thursday, but that he could not be saved.

"He had surgery today, they couldn't stop the bleeding so we lost him.

We were happy because we thought it was going well, he had been battling for 50 days," the brother said, according to Anadolu.

Brenton Tarrant, 28, a suspected white supremacist from Australia, has been charged with 50 counts of murder for New Zealand's worst peacetime mass shooting.

Fifty other people were injured in the attacks, which occurred during Friday prayers.

A Turkish citizen who was wounded during deadly attacks at two mosques in the New Zealand city of Christchurch on March 15 has died, Turkey's foreign minister said on Thursday, raising the death toll from the shooting to 51.

A Turkish citizen who was wounded during deadly attacks at two mosques in the New Zealand city of Christchurch on March 15 has died, Turkey's foreign minister said on Thursday, raising the death toll from the shooting to 51. "We have unfortunately lost our citizen... who was critically wounded in the heinous attack in Christchurch, New Zealand," Mevlut Cavusoglu said on Twitter. The man's brother told Turkey's state-run Anadolu news agency that the man had been taken to surgery on Thursday, but that he could not be saved. "He had surgery today, they couldn't stop the bleeding so we lost him. We were happy because we thought it was going well, he had been battling for 50 days," the brother said, according to Anadolu. Brenton Tarrant, 28, a suspected white supremacist from Australia, has been charged with 50 counts of murder for New Zealand's worst peacetime mass shooting. Fifty other people were injured in the attacks, which occurred during Friday prayers.

Turk hurt in Christchurch attacks dies; New Zealand death toll climbs to 51

A man in <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/19-year-old-synagogue-shooting-suspect-in-california-was-inspired-from-christchurch-shooter-214091">Christchurch was charged</a> in court on Wednesday with possessing explosives, ammunition and offensive weapons a day after police found a suspected explosive device in the city where 50 Muslims were killed in attacks on two mosques in March.

Police said the 33-year-old suspect had no known link to those attacks. He was charged with three counts of possession of explosives and possession of ammunition and two counts of possession of an offensive weapon, according to an emailed statement from New Zealand Police.

Police had arrested the man at a service station in eastern<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/new-zealand-votes-to-amend-gun-laws-after-christchurch-attack-209275"> Christchurch on Tuesday</a> and bomb disposal officers dealt with the suspected explosive device found at a vacant property in another suburb of the city.

"We are not seeking anyone else in relation to the incident. There are no known links between the 33-year-old man and the Christchurch attacks on March 15," the statement said, adding that police would refrain from further comment while the case was before the courts.

New Zealand's security has been on high alert, though the national security threat was downgraded to 'medium' last month following the massacre at two mosques in the South Island city.

Fifty people were killed and dozens wounded in attacks on the Al Noor and Linwood mosques during Friday prayers on March 15, the worst peace-time shooting in New Zealand history. Tuesday's incident was about a kilometre from the Linwood mosque.

Authorities have charged Australian Brenton Tarrant, 28, a suspected white supremacist, with 50 counts of murder.

A man in Christchurch was charged in court on Wednesday with possessing explosives, ammunition and offensive weapons a day after police found a suspected explosive device in the city where 50 Muslims were killed in attacks on two mosques in March.

A man in Christchurch was charged in court on Wednesday with possessing explosives, ammunition and offensive weapons a day after police found a suspected explosive device in the city where 50 Muslims were killed in attacks on two mosques in March. Police said the 33-year-old suspect had no known link to those attacks. He was charged with three counts of possession of explosives and possession of ammunition and two counts of possession of an offensive weapon, according to an emailed statement from New Zealand Police. Police had arrested the man at a service station in eastern Christchurch on Tuesday and bomb disposal officers dealt with the suspected explosive device found at a vacant property in another suburb of the city. "We are not seeking anyone else in relation to the incident. There are no known links between the 33-year-old man and the Christchurch attacks on March 15," the statement said, adding that police would refrain from further comment while the case was before the courts. New Zealand's security has been on high alert, though the national security threat was downgraded to 'medium' last month following the massacre at two mosques in the South Island city. Fifty people were killed and dozens wounded in attacks on the Al Noor and Linwood mosques during Friday prayers on March 15, the worst peace-time shooting in New Zealand history. Tuesday's incident was about a kilometre from the Linwood mosque. Authorities have charged Australian Brenton Tarrant, 28, a suspected white supremacist, with 50 counts of murder.

New Zealand police charge man in Christchurch over possession of explosives

A <a href="https://www.google.com/url?client=internal-uds-cse&amp;cx=006054055338965708568:09spwrlibei&amp;q=https://www.wionews.com/world/about-200-us-companies-seeking-to-move-manufacturing-base-from-china-to-india-usispf-213845&amp;sa=U&amp;ved=2ahUKEwj0sYOSkvfhAhVz6XMBHfnxD4YQFjABegQIDxAC&amp;usg=AOvVaw3r0_1uAhbyPzb0s4HFlgmy">US</a>&nbsp;combat veteran of the war in Afghanistan who prosecutors say plotted to detonate multiple nail bombs at a Los Angeles-area white nationalist rally, seeking to cause mass casualties, was arrested in an FBI sting operation, federal prosecutors said on Monday.

Mark Steven Domingo, 26, a <a href="https://www.google.com/url?client=internal-uds-cse&amp;cx=006054055338965708568:09spwrlibei&amp;q=https://www.wionews.com/world/us-places-india-china-among-others-on-priority-watch-list-for-ip-rights-violations-213493&amp;sa=U&amp;ved=2ahUKEwj0sYOSkvfhAhVz6XMBHfnxD4YQFjAHegQIBBAC&amp;usg=AOvVaw2UlTtNJHwiMwIGDO_4mIuC">US&nbsp;</a>Army infantryman who recently converted to Islam, was taken into custody on Friday after undercover FBI operatives furnished him with what he thought were live bombs to be used in the attack, law enforcement officials said.

Authorities said Domingo, who had no prior criminal record, came to their attention because of a series of violent extremist messages he posted in online chat rooms, one of which called for "retribution" for the massacre of 50 people at mosques in Christchurch, New Zealand, by a gunman in March.

"Often we are asked what keeps us up at night. This is a case that keeps us up at night," Ryan Young, special agent in charge of the FBI's Joint Terrorism Task Force, told a news conference in Los Angeles.

Domingo, who had purchased several hundred long nails to serve as shrapnel in the homemade pressure-cooker bombs, had also suggested attacks on Jews, police officers, churches, a military facility, Southern California freeways and the Santa Monica Pier during internet conversations with the FBI operatives, Young said.

He was charged in a federal criminal complaint with providing material support to terrorists and was ordered held without bond during a brief initial appearance in US&nbsp;District Court in Los Angeles on Monday.

“This investigation successfully disrupted a very real threat posed by a trained combat soldier who repeatedly stated he wanted to cause the maximum number of casualties,” US Attorney Nick Hanna said in a statement.

According to the criminal complaint, an FBI operative established contact with Domingo in a private online chat room in March, leading to discussions in which Domingo expressed support for Islamic militants and the desire to seek revenge for attacks on Muslims.

'VIOLENT JIHAD'

In one of his earliest posts, he suggested that "America needs another Vegas event," an apparent reference to the 2017 mass shooting at a country music concert in Las Vegas where a lone gunman perched in a nearby hotel killed 58 people and wounded hundreds, the complaint alleged.

Domingo, who said he wanted to become a martyr, also made reference to the 2013 Boston Marathon bombing, according to the complaint.

During one meeting in person with an FBI operative, he arrived carrying an AK 47-style assault rifle, telling the informant: "I just wanted to show you that I'm serious."

According to a law enforcement database, Domingo is the registered owner of three semi-automatic rifles.

An FBI spokeswoman said received a less-than-honourable discharge from the Army.

Prosecutors say Domingo contemplated drive-by shootings and detonating a bomb at the Santa Monica pier before deciding to bomb a rally scheduled for Sunday, April 28, in the Los Angeles suburb of Long Beach that he believed was organized by white nationalists.

Domingo and two FBI informants visited the planned site of the rally to scout the best location to place explosives to cause the greatest casualties, authorities said, agreeing that they would leave the scene separately to throw off suspicion.

He was arrested shortly after placing one of the mock bombs into the vehicle of an informant.

The white nationalist rally ended up not happening, although a number of counterdemonstrators assembled at the site, the Los Angeles City News Service said.

The announcement of Domingo's arrest came two days after a gunman opened fire in a San Diego-area synagogue, killing one woman and wounding three others, including the rabbi. John Earnest, 19, was arrested.

There was no indication the two incidents were connected.

A US combat veteran of the war in Afghanistan who prosecutors say plotted to detonate multiple nail bombs at a Los Angeles-area white nationalist rally, seeking to cause mass casualties, was arrested in an FBI sting operation, federal prosecutors said on Monday.

A US combat veteran of the war in Afghanistan who prosecutors say plotted to detonate multiple nail bombs at a Los Angeles-area white nationalist rally, seeking to cause mass casualties, was arrested in an FBI sting operation, federal prosecutors said on Monday. Mark Steven Domingo, 26, a US Army infantryman who recently converted to Islam, was taken into custody on Friday after undercover FBI operatives furnished him with what he thought were live bombs to be used in the attack, law enforcement officials said. Authorities said Domingo, who had no prior criminal record, came to their attention because of a series of violent extremist messages he posted in online chat rooms, one of which called for "retribution" for the massacre of 50 people at mosques in Christchurch, New Zealand, by a gunman in March. "Often we are asked what keeps us up at night. This is a case that keeps us up at night," Ryan Young, special agent in charge of the FBI's Joint Terrorism Task Force, told a news conference in Los Angeles. Domingo, who had purchased several hundred long nails to serve as shrapnel in the homemade pressure-cooker bombs, had also suggested attacks on Jews, police officers, churches, a military facility, Southern California freeways and the Santa Monica Pier during internet conversations with the FBI operatives, Young said. He was charged in a federal criminal complaint with providing material support to terrorists and was ordered held without bond during a brief initial appearance in US District Court in Los Angeles on Monday. “This investigation successfully disrupted a very real threat posed by a trained combat soldier who repeatedly stated he wanted to cause the maximum number of casualties,” US Attorney Nick Hanna said in a statement. According to the criminal complaint, an FBI operative established contact with Domingo in a private online chat room in March, leading to discussions in which Domingo expressed support for Islamic militants and the desire to seek revenge for attacks on Muslims. 'VIOLENT JIHAD' In one of his earliest posts, he suggested that "America needs another Vegas event," an apparent reference to the 2017 mass shooting at a country music concert in Las Vegas where a lone gunman perched in a nearby hotel killed 58 people and wounded hundreds, the complaint alleged. Domingo, who said he wanted to become a martyr, also made reference to the 2013 Boston Marathon bombing, according to the complaint. During one meeting in person with an FBI operative, he arrived carrying an AK 47-style assault rifle, telling the informant: "I just wanted to show you that I'm serious." According to a law enforcement database, Domingo is the registered owner of three semi-automatic rifles. An FBI spokeswoman said received a less-than-honourable discharge from the Army. Prosecutors say Domingo contemplated drive-by shootings and detonating a bomb at the Santa Monica pier before deciding to bomb a rally scheduled for Sunday, April 28, in the Los Angeles suburb of Long Beach that he believed was organized by white nationalists. Domingo and two FBI informants visited the planned site of the rally to scout the best location to place explosives to cause the greatest casualties, authorities said, agreeing that they would leave the scene separately to throw off suspicion. He was arrested shortly after placing one of the mock bombs into the vehicle of an informant. The white nationalist rally ended up not happening, although a number of counterdemonstrators assembled at the site, the Los Angeles City News Service said. The announcement of Domingo's arrest came two days after a gunman opened fire in a San Diego-area synagogue, killing one woman and wounding three others, including the rabbi. John Earnest, 19, was arrested. There was no indication the two incidents were connected.

US Army veteran charged with plotting to bomb white nationalist rally

A US Army veteran who was allegedly plotting a large-scale terror attack near Los Angeles as revenge for the recent <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/thousands-gather-in-christchurch-for-remembrance-service-after-mass-shooting-206390">mass shootings in New Zealand</a> has been arrested, authorities said Monday.

Mark Steven Domingo, 26, who had combat experience in Afghanistan and recently converted to Islam, faces federal terror-related charges for plotting mass casualties via a home-made bomb at a white nationalist rally in Long Beach this past weekend, officials said.

"This was a case in which law enforcement was able to identify a man consumed with hate and bent on mass murder, and stop him before he could carry out his attack," US Attorney Nick Hanna told reporters.

"Nevertheless, the criminal case outlines a chilling terrorism plot that developed over the past two months and targeted innocent Americans that he expected to gather this past weekend," he added.

Domingo was arrested Friday after receiving what he thought was a live bomb packed with nails that was delivered by an undercover agent.

According to court documents, Domingo expressed support in online posts and conversations with an FBI source for violent jihad and aspired to become a martyr by seeking retribution for attacks against Muslims.

After considering various options -- including targeting Jews, churches, and police officers -- Domingo decided to detonate an IED at the Long Beach rally, which ended up not taking place, authorities said.

"At times Mr Domingo said that he wanted to kill Jews as they walked to synagogue," Hanna said. "At other times he said he wanted to kill and target police officers, attack a military facility or attack crowds at the Santa Monica pier."

He added that Domingo, of Reseda, a neighbourhood in the San Fernando Valley in Los Angeles, even considered killing a neighbour as a prelude to a much larger attack.

Domingo, who served in Afghanistan between September 2012 and January 2013, apparently began mulling carrying out a terror attack in early March and decided to move forward after the March 13 mass shootings at two&nbsp;mosques in Christchurch, New Zealand, that left 50 people dead.

One message he posted to a private group online in early March referred to another mass shooting in Las Vegas in 2017 that left 58 dead.

"America needs another Vegas event... That would give them the taste of terror they gladly spread all over the world," he said.

In another posting on March 14, a day after the New Zealand attacks, he wrote: "There were mosque shootings in New Zealand. There must be retribution." Hanna said Domingo repeatedly spoke about becoming a martyr and vowed to pledge allegiance to the Islamic State terror group if it managed to set up a presence in the United States.

After several weeks of plotting with an undercover FBI informant, Domingo finally set his sights on the rally in Long Beach and bought several hundred three-inch nails to be used as shrapnel inside a pressure cooker bomb, the complaint says.

He believed the nails would be effective "because they would be long enough to penetrate the human body and puncture internal organs." He was arrested after an undercover officer handed him an inert device he thought was active and the pair travelled to the Long Beach park where the&nbsp; 
the rally was set to take place to conduct surveillance.

"I'm extremely glad to be announcing that we interdicted a potential terrorist attack, rather than outlining the FBI's response to yet another tragedy," said Paul Delacourt, assistant director in charge of the FBI's Los Angeles Field Office.

"At no time was the public in danger and there is currently no known threat to public safety." Domingo has been charged with providing and attempting to provide material support to terrorists. He faces up to 15 years in prison on the charge.

He appeared in federal court on Monday and was ordered held without bail pending trial. He is scheduled to be arraigned on May 31.

His arrest comes two days after a 19-year-old California man, John Earnest, was arrested for shooting dead one worshipper and wounding three others at a synagogue near San Diego.

Last year, the Anti-Defamation League, which combats anti-Semitism and discrimination, reported a 57 per cent leap in the number of anti-Semitic incidents in 2017, the sharpest yearly spike since the 1970s.

A US Army veteran who was allegedly plotting a large-scale terror attack near Los Angeles as revenge for the recent mass shootings in New Zealand has been arrested, authorities said Monday.

A US Army veteran who was allegedly plotting a large-scale terror attack near Los Angeles as revenge for the recent mass shootings in New Zealand has been arrested, authorities said Monday. Mark Steven Domingo, 26, who had combat experience in Afghanistan and recently converted to Islam, faces federal terror-related charges for plotting mass casualties via a home-made bomb at a white nationalist rally in Long Beach this past weekend, officials said. "This was a case in which law enforcement was able to identify a man consumed with hate and bent on mass murder, and stop him before he could carry out his attack," US Attorney Nick Hanna told reporters. "Nevertheless, the criminal case outlines a chilling terrorism plot that developed over the past two months and targeted innocent Americans that he expected to gather this past weekend," he added. Domingo was arrested Friday after receiving what he thought was a live bomb packed with nails that was delivered by an undercover agent. According to court documents, Domingo expressed support in online posts and conversations with an FBI source for violent jihad and aspired to become a martyr by seeking retribution for attacks against Muslims. After considering various options -- including targeting Jews, churches, and police officers -- Domingo decided to detonate an IED at the Long Beach rally, which ended up not taking place, authorities said. "At times Mr Domingo said that he wanted to kill Jews as they walked to synagogue," Hanna said. "At other times he said he wanted to kill and target police officers, attack a military facility or attack crowds at the Santa Monica pier." He added that Domingo, of Reseda, a neighbourhood in the San Fernando Valley in Los Angeles, even considered killing a neighbour as a prelude to a much larger attack. Domingo, who served in Afghanistan between September 2012 and January 2013, apparently began mulling carrying out a terror attack in early March and decided to move forward after the March 13 mass shootings at two mosques in Christchurch, New Zealand, that left 50 people dead. One message he posted to a private group online in early March referred to another mass shooting in Las Vegas in 2017 that left 58 dead. "America needs another Vegas event... That would give them the taste of terror they gladly spread all over the world," he said. In another posting on March 14, a day after the New Zealand attacks, he wrote: "There were mosque shootings in New Zealand. There must be retribution." Hanna said Domingo repeatedly spoke about becoming a martyr and vowed to pledge allegiance to the Islamic State terror group if it managed to set up a presence in the United States. After several weeks of plotting with an undercover FBI informant, Domingo finally set his sights on the rally in Long Beach and bought several hundred three-inch nails to be used as shrapnel inside a pressure cooker bomb, the complaint says. He believed the nails would be effective "because they would be long enough to penetrate the human body and puncture internal organs." He was arrested after an undercover officer handed him an inert device he thought was active and the pair travelled to the Long Beach park where the the rally was set to take place to conduct surveillance. "I'm extremely glad to be announcing that we interdicted a potential terrorist attack, rather than outlining the FBI's response to yet another tragedy," said Paul Delacourt, assistant director in charge of the FBI's Los Angeles Field Office. "At no time was the public in danger and there is currently no known threat to public safety." Domingo has been charged with providing and attempting to provide material support to terrorists. He faces up to 15 years in prison on the charge. He appeared in federal court on Monday and was ordered held without bail pending trial. He is scheduled to be arraigned on May 31. His arrest comes two days after a 19-year-old California man, John Earnest, was arrested for shooting dead one worshipper and wounding three others at a synagogue near San Diego. Last year, the Anti-Defamation League, which combats anti-Semitism and discrimination, reported a 57 per cent leap in the number of anti-Semitic incidents in 2017, the sharpest yearly spike since the 1970s.

US Army veteran arrested over New Zealand revenge attack

A 19-year-old man who authorities said gave himself up to police shortly after carrying out a <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/one-dead-three-injured-in-us-synagogue-shooting-214031">deadly shooting in a Southern California synagogue</a> filled with Sabbath worshippers is also under investigation in connection with an unsolved mosque arson.

The gunman walked into the suburban <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/san-diego-area-synagogue-shooting-appears-to-be-hate-crime-trump-214020">San Diego synagogue</a> late Saturday morning, the last day of the week-long Jewish holiday of Passover, and opened fire with an assault-style rifle, killing one woman inside and wounding three others, including the rabbi, authorities said.

He then sped away in a car, escaping an off-duty US&nbsp;Border Patrol agent who shot at the getaway vehicle but missed the suspect, but the suspect pulled over and surrendered to police officers a short time later.

The suspect was later identified as John Earnest, 19, of San Diego, the apparent author of a "manifesto" who claimed to have set a nearby mosque on fire last month and professed drawing inspiration from the gunman who killed nearly 50 people at two mosques in New Zealand.

San Diego County Sheriff Bill Gore said police and FBI were investigating Earnest's "possible involvement" in the March 24 pre-dawn arson fire at the Islamic Center of Escondido, a town about 15 miles (24 km) north of Poway. No one was hurt at the mosque fire.

Gore said Earnest has no prior criminal record.

Saturday's gun violence at the Congregation Chabad temple in the town of Poway, California, about 23 miles (37 km) north of downtown San Diego, unfolded six months to the day after 11 worshippers were killed and six others wounded by a gunman who stormed the Tree of Life synagogue in Pittsburgh yelling, "All Jews must die."

The assailant in that massacre, said to be the deadliest attack ever against Jews on US&nbsp;soil, was also arrested.

San Diego County Sheriff's Department officials issued a statement saying the gunman in Saturday's attack was believed to have acted alone and that there "are no known threats to religious gatherings."

But the Passover violence came amid an upsurge in reports of anti-Semitism nationwide and abroad and followed a recent spate of deadly attacks on places of worship around the world.

Suicide bombings during Easter Sunday services at several churches in Sri Lanka killed more than 250 people. A gunman who opened fire at two mosques in Christchurch, New Zealand, on March 15 left 49 people dead and more than 40 wounded, some as they knelt in prayer.

Poway Mayor Steve Vaus characterized Saturday's shooting as a "hate crime," saying his assessment was based on statements uttered by the gunman when he entered the synagogue.

At a news conference later, Gore told reporters: "Clearly it's being investigated as a homicide, but we're also looking at the hate crime possible violation as well as federal civil rights violations."

A rambling, violently anti-Semitic, anti-Muslim screed written by an individual calling himself John Earnest was found posted to the online text-storage site Pastebin.com and the file-storage site Mediafire.com. Links to the content on both sources were posted on the Internet message board 8chan.

In that letter, the author also claimed credit for the Escondido mosque arson, which was put out by congregants inside who were alerted by the smell of smoke. Local media at the time reported that a message scrawled on the driveway of the mosque mentioned the New Zealand massacre.

The synagogue on Saturday was hosting a holiday celebration due to culminate in a final Passover meal that evening. Authorities said about 100 people were inside the temple, where Saturday services marking the Jewish Sabbath would have been under way or have just concluded.

Eyewitnesses reported hearing about a dozen gunshots, punctuated by the sound of a man yelling inside the temple.

Gore told reporters that four people were struck by gunfire and taken to a nearby hospital, where one victim, an "older woman," died. Authorities said the rabbi underwent surgery for treatment of wounds to his hands. The sheriff's office said the two other victims, a 34-year-old man and a girl, were each struck by shrapnel but were "doing well."

A 19-year-old man who authorities said gave himself up to police shortly after carrying out a deadly shooting in a Southern California synagogue filled with Sabbath worshippers is also under investigation in connection with an unsolved mosque arson.

A 19-year-old man who authorities said gave himself up to police shortly after carrying out a deadly shooting in a Southern California synagogue filled with Sabbath worshippers is also under investigation in connection with an unsolved mosque arson. The gunman walked into the suburban San Diego synagogue late Saturday morning, the last day of the week-long Jewish holiday of Passover, and opened fire with an assault-style rifle, killing one woman inside and wounding three others, including the rabbi, authorities said. He then sped away in a car, escaping an off-duty US Border Patrol agent who shot at the getaway vehicle but missed the suspect, but the suspect pulled over and surrendered to police officers a short time later. The suspect was later identified as John Earnest, 19, of San Diego, the apparent author of a "manifesto" who claimed to have set a nearby mosque on fire last month and professed drawing inspiration from the gunman who killed nearly 50 people at two mosques in New Zealand. San Diego County Sheriff Bill Gore said police and FBI were investigating Earnest's "possible involvement" in the March 24 pre-dawn arson fire at the Islamic Center of Escondido, a town about 15 miles (24 km) north of Poway. No one was hurt at the mosque fire. Gore said Earnest has no prior criminal record. Saturday's gun violence at the Congregation Chabad temple in the town of Poway, California, about 23 miles (37 km) north of downtown San Diego, unfolded six months to the day after 11 worshippers were killed and six others wounded by a gunman who stormed the Tree of Life synagogue in Pittsburgh yelling, "All Jews must die." The assailant in that massacre, said to be the deadliest attack ever against Jews on US soil, was also arrested. San Diego County Sheriff's Department officials issued a statement saying the gunman in Saturday's attack was believed to have acted alone and that there "are no known threats to religious gatherings." But the Passover violence came amid an upsurge in reports of anti-Semitism nationwide and abroad and followed a recent spate of deadly attacks on places of worship around the world. Suicide bombings during Easter Sunday services at several churches in Sri Lanka killed more than 250 people. A gunman who opened fire at two mosques in Christchurch, New Zealand, on March 15 left 49 people dead and more than 40 wounded, some as they knelt in prayer. Poway Mayor Steve Vaus characterized Saturday's shooting as a "hate crime," saying his assessment was based on statements uttered by the gunman when he entered the synagogue. At a news conference later, Gore told reporters: "Clearly it's being investigated as a homicide, but we're also looking at the hate crime possible violation as well as federal civil rights violations." A rambling, violently anti-Semitic, anti-Muslim screed written by an individual calling himself John Earnest was found posted to the online text-storage site Pastebin.com and the file-storage site Mediafire.com. Links to the content on both sources were posted on the Internet message board 8chan. In that letter, the author also claimed credit for the Escondido mosque arson, which was put out by congregants inside who were alerted by the smell of smoke. Local media at the time reported that a message scrawled on the driveway of the mosque mentioned the New Zealand massacre. The synagogue on Saturday was hosting a holiday celebration due to culminate in a final Passover meal that evening. Authorities said about 100 people were inside the temple, where Saturday services marking the Jewish Sabbath would have been under way or have just concluded. Eyewitnesses reported hearing about a dozen gunshots, punctuated by the sound of a man yelling inside the temple. Gore told reporters that four people were struck by gunfire and taken to a nearby hospital, where one victim, an "older woman," died. Authorities said the rabbi underwent surgery for treatment of wounds to his hands. The sheriff's office said the two other victims, a 34-year-old man and a girl, were each struck by shrapnel but were "doing well."

19-year-old synagogue shooting suspect in California was inspired from Christchurch shooter

Prince William laid a wreath at the Christchurch Earthquake National Memorial on Friday&nbsp;before greeting hundreds of well-wishers who had gathered for a glimpse of the royal.

The earthquake struck Christchurch on February 22, 2011, killing 185 people and injuring thousands.

Victims of the earthquake include people from Australia, Canada, China, Ireland, Israel, Japan, Korea, Malaysia, New Zealand, Peru, Philippines, Taiwan, Romania, Serbia, Thailand, Turkey, USA and the UK.

The Prince was at the end of a two-day tour of New Zealand to mark Anzac Day and to visit survivors of the Christchurch shooting in which 50 people lost their lives. 
&nbsp;

Prince William laid a wreath at the Christchurch Earthquake National Memorial on Friday before greeting hundreds of well-wishers who had gathered for a glimpse of the royal.

Prince William laid a wreath at the Christchurch Earthquake National Memorial on Friday before greeting hundreds of well-wishers who had gathered for a glimpse of the royal. The earthquake struck Christchurch on February 22, 2011, killing 185 people and injuring thousands. Victims of the earthquake include people from Australia, Canada, China, Ireland, Israel, Japan, Korea, Malaysia, New Zealand, Peru, Philippines, Taiwan, Romania, Serbia, Thailand, Turkey, USA and the UK. The Prince was at the end of a two-day tour of New Zealand to mark Anzac Day and to visit survivors of the Christchurch shooting in which 50 people lost their lives.

Prince William lays wreath at Christchurch Earthquake National Memorial

In the wake of the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/new-zealand-has-not-yet-seen-intel-linking-sri-lanka-bombings-to-christchurch-pm-212941">Christchurch attack</a>, New Zealand said on Wednesday that it would work with France in an effort to stop social media from being used to promote terrorism and violent extremism.

Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern said in a statement that she will co-chair a meeting with French President Emmanuel Macron in Paris on May 15 that will seek to have world leaders and CEOs of tech companies agree to a pledge, called the Christchurch Call, to eliminate terrorist and violent extremist content online.

A lone gunman killed 50 people at two mosques in Christchurch on March 15, while live streaming the massacre on Facebook.

Brenton Tarrant, 28, a suspected white supremacist, has been charged with 50 counts of murder for the mass shooting.

''It’s critical that technology platforms like Facebook are not perverted as a tool for terrorism, and instead become part of a global solution to countering extremism," Ardern said in the statement.

"This meeting presents an opportunity for an act of unity between governments and the tech companies," she added.

The meeting will be held alongside the Tech for Humanity meeting of G7 digital ministers, of which France is the chair, and France’s separate Tech for Good summit, both on 15 May, the statement said.

Ardern said at a press conference later on Wednesday that she has spoken with executives from a number of tech firms including Facebook, Twitter, Microsoft, Google and few other companies.

"The response I've received has been positive. No tech company, just like no government, would like to see violent extremism and terrorism online," Ardern said at the media briefing, adding that she had also spoken with Facebook's Mark Zuckerberg directly on the topic.

A Facebook spokesman said the company looks forward to collaborating with government, industry and safety experts on a clear framework of rules.

"We're evaluating how we can best support this effort and who among top Facebook executives will attend,” the spokesman said in a statement sent by email.

Facebook Inc, the world's largest social network with 2.7 billion users, has faced criticism since the Christchurch attack that it failed to tackle extremism.

One of the main groups representing Muslims in France has said it was suing Facebook and YouTube, a unit of Alphabet's Google, accusing them of inciting violence by allowing the streaming of the Christchurch massacre on their platforms.

Facebook Chief Operating Officer Sheryl Sandberg said last month that the company was looking to place restrictions on who can go live on its platform based on certain criteria.

In the wake of the Christchurch attack, New Zealand said on Wednesday that it would work with France in an effort to stop social media from being used to promote terrorism and violent extremism.

In the wake of the Christchurch attack, New Zealand said on Wednesday that it would work with France in an effort to stop social media from being used to promote terrorism and violent extremism. Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern said in a statement that she will co-chair a meeting with French President Emmanuel Macron in Paris on May 15 that will seek to have world leaders and CEOs of tech companies agree to a pledge, called the Christchurch Call, to eliminate terrorist and violent extremist content online. A lone gunman killed 50 people at two mosques in Christchurch on March 15, while live streaming the massacre on Facebook. Brenton Tarrant, 28, a suspected white supremacist, has been charged with 50 counts of murder for the mass shooting. ''It’s critical that technology platforms like Facebook are not perverted as a tool for terrorism, and instead become part of a global solution to countering extremism," Ardern said in the statement. "This meeting presents an opportunity for an act of unity between governments and the tech companies," she added. The meeting will be held alongside the Tech for Humanity meeting of G7 digital ministers, of which France is the chair, and France’s separate Tech for Good summit, both on 15 May, the statement said. Ardern said at a press conference later on Wednesday that she has spoken with executives from a number of tech firms including Facebook, Twitter, Microsoft, Google and few other companies. "The response I've received has been positive. No tech company, just like no government, would like to see violent extremism and terrorism online," Ardern said at the media briefing, adding that she had also spoken with Facebook's Mark Zuckerberg directly on the topic. A Facebook spokesman said the company looks forward to collaborating with government, industry and safety experts on a clear framework of rules. "We're evaluating how we can best support this effort and who among top Facebook executives will attend,” the spokesman said in a statement sent by email. Facebook Inc, the world's largest social network with 2.7 billion users, has faced criticism since the Christchurch attack that it failed to tackle extremism. One of the main groups representing Muslims in France has said it was suing Facebook and YouTube, a unit of Alphabet's Google, accusing them of inciting violence by allowing the streaming of the Christchurch massacre on their platforms. Facebook Chief Operating Officer Sheryl Sandberg said last month that the company was looking to place restrictions on who can go live on its platform based on certain criteria.

New Zealand, France plan bid to tackle extremism on social media

Deputy Defence Minister of Sri Lanka, Ruwan Wijewardene has said people in Sri Lanka need to be more vigilant in the aftermath of the terror attack that killed around 359 people.&nbsp;

While speaking to WION, the minister appreciated India for its help.

WION: What is the current situation in your country?

Ruwan Wijewardene: All I can say is that citizen of this country has to stay alert, vigilant for the next few days. I believe we will have the situation under control in a couple of days until then our people have to be more vigilant.

WION: How India has helped you?

Ruwan Wijewardene: Indian government has been very helpful. From the beginning, they have given us the assistance we have been wanting to do the investigation we want. They are giving information. They have been very helpful. And as always we look to our neighbour when a crisis happens in our country.

WION: India had provided intelligence before the attack, &nbsp;what will you say on that?

Ruwan Wijewardene: Our intelligence agencies have links with intelligence agencies of other countries. So, I think, there has been information coming from many sources. Our intelligence had been briefed. And certain officials were notified about a possible attack but due to some lapse of security arrangements, most of the officials were not notified about the threats, that is including me and the prime minister. So, there has been a lapse on that regard but the president has promised an enquiry as to why the lapse happened.&nbsp;

WION: You said, there is a New Zealand link. Sri Lanka attacks was a retaliation to New Zealand attack?

Ruwan Wijewardene: From the assessment that is available by our intelligence services, they believe that it was definitely a motivational attack. A fact, for this group to conduct bombings on Easter Sunday. The group had started off by defacing Buddhist status but they never took up to this magnitude. So, to do on Easter Sunday, our intelligence services had input, it was definitely a motivational factor.

WION: How many countries have offered you help?

Ruwan Wijewardene: Right now we have assistance from the US, UK, India, Australia. UAE ambassador also called and offered us help.

WION: Number of people who died in the attack?

Ruwan Wijewardene: 359 people have died in the attack among which 39 were foreigners.&nbsp;

Deputy Defence Minister of Sri Lanka, Ruwan Wijewardene has said people in Sri Lanka need to be more vigilant in the aftermath of the terror attack that killed around 359 people.

Deputy Defence Minister of Sri Lanka, Ruwan Wijewardene has said people in Sri Lanka need to be more vigilant in the aftermath of the terror attack that killed around 359 people. While speaking to WION, the minister appreciated India for its help. WION: What is the current situation in your country? Ruwan Wijewardene: All I can say is that citizen of this country has to stay alert, vigilant for the next few days. I believe we will have the situation under control in a couple of days until then our people have to be more vigilant. WION: How India has helped you? Ruwan Wijewardene: Indian government has been very helpful. From the beginning, they have given us the assistance we have been wanting to do the investigation we want. They are giving information. They have been very helpful. And as always we look to our neighbour when a crisis happens in our country. WION: India had provided intelligence before the attack, what will you say on that? Ruwan Wijewardene: Our intelligence agencies have links with intelligence agencies of other countries. So, I think, there has been information coming from many sources. Our intelligence had been briefed. And certain officials were notified about a possible attack but due to some lapse of security arrangements, most of the officials were not notified about the threats, that is including me and the prime minister. So, there has been a lapse on that regard but the president has promised an enquiry as to why the lapse happened. WION: You said, there is a New Zealand link. Sri Lanka attacks was a retaliation to New Zealand attack? Ruwan Wijewardene: From the assessment that is available by our intelligence services, they believe that it was definitely a motivational attack. A fact, for this group to conduct bombings on Easter Sunday. The group had started off by defacing Buddhist status but they never took up to this magnitude. So, to do on Easter Sunday, our intelligence services had input, it was definitely a motivational factor. WION: How many countries have offered you help? Ruwan Wijewardene: Right now we have assistance from the US, UK, India, Australia. UAE ambassador also called and offered us help. WION: Number of people who died in the attack? Ruwan Wijewardene: 359 people have died in the attack among which 39 were foreigners.

Indian government has been very helpful: Sri Lanka's Deputy Defence Minister Ruwan Wijewardene to WION

Two days <a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/sri-lanka-colombo-on-high-alert-following-reports-of-explosives-laden-van-212903">after the terror attacks</a>, Sri Lanka PM Ranil Wickremesinghe today addressed the media asserting that the bombings could have been prevented if intelligence was avaliable.

"I have sought a report on why intelligence wasn't shared," PM Ranil Wickremesinghe said, adding,"attacks occurred with intelligence from international network."&nbsp;

"There was a breakdown in communication," he added.

"Those arrested till now are all Lankans."

"The probe is headed in the right direction," the Lankan PM said.

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Meanwhile, the<a href="https://www.wionews.com/west-asia/islamic-state-claims-responsibility-for-sri-lanka-bombings-212899"> Islamic State terrorist group</a> claimed responsibility for the Easter Sunday attack in which at least 320 people have been killed with several hundred wounded.

According to police spokesman Ruwan Gunasekera at least 500 people have been wounded. The police said 40 people were under arrest in connection with the attacks.

The Sri Lankan government on Tuesday had blamed the Islamist National Thowheeth Jamath (NTJ) group for the blasts, saying they were carried out in retaliation for last month's attacks on two mosques in New Zealand.

However, New Zealand PM Jacinda Ardern's office said it hadn't seen any intelligence reports linking the bombings in Sri Lanka to last month's mosque massacre in Christchurch.&nbsp;

"We understand the Sri Lankan investigation into the attack is in its early stages," the spokesperson said. "New Zealand has not yet seen any intelligence upon which such an assessment might be based." &nbsp;

Sri Lankans observed three minutes of silence early Tuesday to pay tribute to the victims. National flags were lowered and people bowed their heads as the silence began at 8:30 am.

Several Lankans came out on the streets as the nation buried all those who lost their lives in the Sunday's attack. Devastated relatives collapsed into the arms of bystanders at memorial services as people wept openly.

Inside St Sebastian's, evidence of the blast was everywhere, with shattered religious statues and smashed pews littering the floor. Services were held in the grounds, where more than a thousand people gathered by mid-morning to remember the victims.

The atmosphere was heavy with grief.&nbsp;

Two days after the terror attacks, Sri Lanka PM Ranil Wickremesinghe today addressed the media asserting that the bombings could have been prevented if intelligence was avaliable.

Two days after the terror attacks, Sri Lanka PM Ranil Wickremesinghe today addressed the media asserting that the bombings could have been prevented if intelligence was avaliable. "I have sought a report on why intelligence wasn't shared," PM Ranil Wickremesinghe said, adding,"attacks occurred with intelligence from international network." "There was a breakdown in communication," he added. "Those arrested till now are all Lankans." "The probe is headed in the right direction," the Lankan PM said. × Meanwhile, the Islamic State terrorist group claimed responsibility for the Easter Sunday attack in which at least 320 people have been killed with several hundred wounded. According to police spokesman Ruwan Gunasekera at least 500 people have been wounded. The police said 40 people were under arrest in connection with the attacks. The Sri Lankan government on Tuesday had blamed the Islamist National Thowheeth Jamath (NTJ) group for the blasts, saying they were carried out in retaliation for last month's attacks on two mosques in New Zealand. However, New Zealand PM Jacinda Ardern's office said it hadn't seen any intelligence reports linking the bombings in Sri Lanka to last month's mosque massacre in Christchurch. "We understand the Sri Lankan investigation into the attack is in its early stages," the spokesperson said. "New Zealand has not yet seen any intelligence upon which such an assessment might be based." Sri Lankans observed three minutes of silence early Tuesday to pay tribute to the victims. National flags were lowered and people bowed their heads as the silence began at 8:30 am. Several Lankans came out on the streets as the nation buried all those who lost their lives in the Sunday's attack. Devastated relatives collapsed into the arms of bystanders at memorial services as people wept openly. Inside St Sebastian's, evidence of the blast was everywhere, with shattered religious statues and smashed pews littering the floor. Services were held in the grounds, where more than a thousand people gathered by mid-morning to remember the victims. The atmosphere was heavy with grief.

I have sought report on why intelligence wasn't shared: Sri Lanka PM Wickremesinghe

Thousands of Pakistanis on Friday (April 12) paid tribute to the 50 victims of the <a href="https://www.google.com/url?q=https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/thousands-of-pakistanis-form-human-chain-in-image-of-christchurch-mosque-209949&amp;sa=U&amp;ved=0ahUKEwjHs_SB1szhAhWJsI8KHdKBABMQFggFMAA&amp;client=internal-uds-cse&amp;cx=006054055338965708568:09spwrlibei&amp;usg=AOvVaw1IqjEmkngjTC7FLiPnlMIH">Christchurch</a> mosque attack last month.

Dressed in white, they gathered on a huge green area in the Jhang district in Punjab to form an image of the Al Noor mosque, one of the attack sites, amid chants of "Islam is Peace."

A second group, also dressed in stark white, formed the words "Islam is peace" nearby.

The tribute was organized by the Muslim Institute, an NGO aimed at promoting peace and stability in the Muslim world.

On March 15, a gunman stormed two mosques shooting dead 50 people in <a href="https://www.google.com/url?q=https://www.wionews.com/world/muslims-return-to-christchurch-mosque-as-new-zealand-works-to-move-on-204991&amp;sa=U&amp;ved=0ahUKEwjHs_SB1szhAhWJsI8KHdKBABMQFggLMAI&amp;client=internal-uds-cse&amp;cx=006054055338965708568:09spwrlibei&amp;usg=AOvVaw2dJnI0SF_VmHCbHNHGnx5i">New Zealand</a>'s worst mass shooting. Nine were of Pakistani origin. One, Naeem Rashid, was posthumously given an award for bravery by Pakistan after he apparently tried to tackle the gunman before being shot.

Thousands of Pakistanis on Friday (April 12) paid tribute to the 50 victims of the Christchurch mosque attack last month. Dressed in white, they gathered on a huge green area in the Jhang district in Punjab to form an image of the Al Noor mosque, one of the attack sites, amid chants of "Islam is Peace.

Thousands of Pakistanis on Friday (April 12) paid tribute to the 50 victims of the Christchurch mosque attack last month. Dressed in white, they gathered on a huge green area in the Jhang district in Punjab to form an image of the Al Noor mosque, one of the attack sites, amid chants of "Islam is Peace." A second group, also dressed in stark white, formed the words "Islam is peace" nearby. The tribute was organized by the Muslim Institute, an NGO aimed at promoting peace and stability in the Muslim world. On March 15, a gunman stormed two mosques shooting dead 50 people in New Zealand's worst mass shooting. Nine were of Pakistani origin. One, Naeem Rashid, was posthumously given an award for bravery by Pakistan after he apparently tried to tackle the gunman before being shot.

Thousands of Pakistanis gather to pay tribute to Christchurch victims

The British government said on Monday it will explore making <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/facebook-rights-groups-hit-out-at-singapores-fake-news-bill-207343">social media executives personally </a>liable for harmful content published on their platforms, in a raft of new online safety proposals.

The plans unveiled in a policy paper, which also include creating an independent regulator, aim to tackle all kinds of harmful content from encouraging violence and suicide to spreading disinformation and cyberbullying.

The issue has gained added urgency with <a href="Facebook chief Zuckerberg wants 'more active' govt role regulating internet">Facebook's failure to immediately</a> halt live streams of a March 15 attack by a self-avowed white supremacist on two mosques in New Zealand that killed 50 people.

Prime Minister Theresa May warned tech companies they had "not done enough" to protect users and that her government intended to put "a legal duty of care" on the firms "to keep people safe".

"For too long these companies have not done enough to protect users, especially children and young people, from harmful content," she said in a statement. "That is not good enough, and it is time to do things differently.

"Online companies must start taking responsibility for their platforms, and help restore public trust in this technology."&nbsp;

The new laws envisaged will apply to any company that allows users to share or discover user-generated content or interact with each other online.

That will include file hosting sites and chat forums as well as the better known social media platforms, messaging services and search engines.

Firms could face tough penalties for failing to meet the standards.

"We are consulting on powers to issue substantial fines, block access to sites and potentially to impose liability on individual members of senior management," the government said.

Under the proposals, a new regulator would have the power to force platforms and others to publish annual transparency reports. 
They would include the levels of harmful content disseminated on their sites and how they addressed the problem.

The regulator will also be able to issue codes of practice, which could compel companies to meet certain requirements, such as hiring fact-checkers, particularly during election periods.

"The era of self-regulation for online companies is over," Digital Secretary Jeremy Wright said, adding he wanted the sector to be "part of the solution".

"Those that fail to do this will face tough action," he vowed.

Proponents of tougher social media regulations welcomed the proposals.

"For too long social networks have failed to prioritise children's safety and left them exposed to grooming, abuse, and harmful content," said Peter Wanless, head of the National Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Children.

"It's high time they were forced to act through this legally binding duty to protect children, backed up with hefty punishments if they fail to do so."&nbsp;

The British government said on Monday it will explore making social media executives personally liable for harmful content published on their platforms, in a raft of new online safety proposals.

The British government said on Monday it will explore making social media executives personally liable for harmful content published on their platforms, in a raft of new online safety proposals. The plans unveiled in a policy paper, which also include creating an independent regulator, aim to tackle all kinds of harmful content from encouraging violence and suicide to spreading disinformation and cyberbullying. The issue has gained added urgency with Facebook's failure to immediately halt live streams of a March 15 attack by a self-avowed white supremacist on two mosques in New Zealand that killed 50 people. Prime Minister Theresa May warned tech companies they had "not done enough" to protect users and that her government intended to put "a legal duty of care" on the firms "to keep people safe". "For too long these companies have not done enough to protect users, especially children and young people, from harmful content," she said in a statement. "That is not good enough, and it is time to do things differently. "Online companies must start taking responsibility for their platforms, and help restore public trust in this technology." The new laws envisaged will apply to any company that allows users to share or discover user-generated content or interact with each other online. That will include file hosting sites and chat forums as well as the better known social media platforms, messaging services and search engines. Firms could face tough penalties for failing to meet the standards. "We are consulting on powers to issue substantial fines, block access to sites and potentially to impose liability on individual members of senior management," the government said. Under the proposals, a new regulator would have the power to force platforms and others to publish annual transparency reports. They would include the levels of harmful content disseminated on their sites and how they addressed the problem. The regulator will also be able to issue codes of practice, which could compel companies to meet certain requirements, such as hiring fact-checkers, particularly during election periods. "The era of self-regulation for online companies is over," Digital Secretary Jeremy Wright said, adding he wanted the sector to be "part of the solution". "Those that fail to do this will face tough action," he vowed. Proponents of tougher social media regulations welcomed the proposals. "For too long social networks have failed to prioritise children's safety and left them exposed to grooming, abuse, and harmful content," said Peter Wanless, head of the National Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Children. "It's high time they were forced to act through this legally binding duty to protect children, backed up with hefty punishments if they fail to do so."

UK plans to hold social media giants liable for harmful content

The man accused of <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/accused-christchurch-gunman-to-face-50-murder-charges-nz-police-207812">shooting dead 50 Muslim worshippers in a Christchurch mosque </a>sat impassively Friday as a New Zealand judge ordered him to undergo tests to determine if he is mentally fit to stand trial for murder.

Survivors and relatives of those killed in the March 15 attacks packed into a Christchurch courtroom as alleged gunman Brenton Tarrant appeared via audio-visual link from a maximum-security prison in Auckland.

The 28-year-old Australian faces 50 murder and 39 attempted murder charges over the shootings at two mosques, which shocked the world and rattled normally peaceful New Zealand.

High Court judge Cameron Mander ruled during the brief hearing that Tarrant would be examined by two health assessors to determine "whether he is fit to stand trial or insane".

The suspect -- a self-avowed white supremacist -- sat motionless throughout the hearing, listening intently to proceedings.&nbsp;

He was not required to enter a plea and was remanded in custody until his next court appearance on June 14.

About 50 people were in the court's public gallery to catch a glimpse of the man charged with the deadliest massacre in modern New Zealand history.

While the public gallery could see Tarrant on screen, the position of the camera in court ensured his view from prison was restricted to the judge and lawyers.

For most, Tarrant's appearance on screen was the first chance to see the face of the man accused of gunning down their loved ones in cold blood.

Yama Nabi, whose 71-year-old father was killed, went to bear witness on behalf of his "heartbroken" family.&nbsp;

"I just wanted to see his face... it's not going to bring the loved ones back. I was like (he's a) coward," he told reporters outside the court.

'Didn't see emotion

Survivor Tofazzal Alam lay down in the Linwood mosque to avoid being shot during the attack and never saw the gunman up close.

"I wanted to see him because he killed so many of my friends. He looks crazy and it was very upsetting," he said after the hearing.

"I'm very upset to see him. He killed 50 people and he doesn't look like he's bothered. I didn't see any emotion on his face."

Ahead of the shooting, Tarrant posted a rambling manifesto on social media in which he identified himself by name and described himself as a white supremacist out to avenge attacks in Europe perpetrated by Muslims.&nbsp;

He live-streamed himself as he opened fire in the packed Al Noor mosque during Friday prayers and then travelled across town to continue the carnage in the suburban Linwood mosque.

Tarrant was initially charged with one murder count as a holding measure when he made his first court appearance a day after the killings.&nbsp;

However, the charges were updated Friday to include the names of all 50 who were killed in the attack and 39 others who were wounded.

Tarrant had sacked a court-appointed lawyer after the initial court appearance, raising fears he wanted to represent himself and attempt to use any trial as a right-wing propaganda platform.

However, two Auckland lawyers, Shane Tait and Jonathan Hudson, appeared in court Friday on his behalf.

Judge Mander barred media from filming or photographing proceedings and reiterated an existing ruling that Tarrant's face must be pixillated in images taken during his previous court appearance.

He also ordered the names of the 39 attempted murder victims to be suppressed, saying identifying them could hinder their recovery, and ruled a summary of the prosecution's allegations would not be made public as it contained sensitive information.

New Zealand Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern has called the mosque killings a well-planned "terrorist attack" and taken immediate steps to tighten the country's gun laws.&nbsp;

The government has also said it will review laws dealing with hate speech and called for social media giants to do more to combat online extremism.

The latest update from health authorities earlier this week said 24 people remained in hospital after the attacks, four of them critical, including a four-year-old girl.

The man accused of shooting dead 50 Muslim worshippers in a Christchurch mosque sat impassively Friday as a New Zealand judge ordered him to undergo tests to determine if he is mentally fit to stand trial for murder.

The man accused of shooting dead 50 Muslim worshippers in a Christchurch mosque sat impassively Friday as a New Zealand judge ordered him to undergo tests to determine if he is mentally fit to stand trial for murder. Survivors and relatives of those killed in the March 15 attacks packed into a Christchurch courtroom as alleged gunman Brenton Tarrant appeared via audio-visual link from a maximum-security prison in Auckland. The 28-year-old Australian faces 50 murder and 39 attempted murder charges over the shootings at two mosques, which shocked the world and rattled normally peaceful New Zealand. High Court judge Cameron Mander ruled during the brief hearing that Tarrant would be examined by two health assessors to determine "whether he is fit to stand trial or insane". The suspect -- a self-avowed white supremacist -- sat motionless throughout the hearing, listening intently to proceedings. He was not required to enter a plea and was remanded in custody until his next court appearance on June 14. About 50 people were in the court's public gallery to catch a glimpse of the man charged with the deadliest massacre in modern New Zealand history. While the public gallery could see Tarrant on screen, the position of the camera in court ensured his view from prison was restricted to the judge and lawyers. For most, Tarrant's appearance on screen was the first chance to see the face of the man accused of gunning down their loved ones in cold blood. Yama Nabi, whose 71-year-old father was killed, went to bear witness on behalf of his "heartbroken" family. "I just wanted to see his face... it's not going to bring the loved ones back. I was like (he's a) coward," he told reporters outside the court. 'Didn't see emotion Survivor Tofazzal Alam lay down in the Linwood mosque to avoid being shot during the attack and never saw the gunman up close. "I wanted to see him because he killed so many of my friends. He looks crazy and it was very upsetting," he said after the hearing. "I'm very upset to see him. He killed 50 people and he doesn't look like he's bothered. I didn't see any emotion on his face." Ahead of the shooting, Tarrant posted a rambling manifesto on social media in which he identified himself by name and described himself as a white supremacist out to avenge attacks in Europe perpetrated by Muslims. He live-streamed himself as he opened fire in the packed Al Noor mosque during Friday prayers and then travelled across town to continue the carnage in the suburban Linwood mosque. Tarrant was initially charged with one murder count as a holding measure when he made his first court appearance a day after the killings. However, the charges were updated Friday to include the names of all 50 who were killed in the attack and 39 others who were wounded. Tarrant had sacked a court-appointed lawyer after the initial court appearance, raising fears he wanted to represent himself and attempt to use any trial as a right-wing propaganda platform. However, two Auckland lawyers, Shane Tait and Jonathan Hudson, appeared in court Friday on his behalf. Judge Mander barred media from filming or photographing proceedings and reiterated an existing ruling that Tarrant's face must be pixillated in images taken during his previous court appearance. He also ordered the names of the 39 attempted murder victims to be suppressed, saying identifying them could hinder their recovery, and ruled a summary of the prosecution's allegations would not be made public as it contained sensitive information. New Zealand Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern has called the mosque killings a well-planned "terrorist attack" and taken immediate steps to tighten the country's gun laws. The government has also said it will review laws dealing with hate speech and called for social media giants to do more to combat online extremism. The latest update from health authorities earlier this week said 24 people remained in hospital after the attacks, four of them critical, including a four-year-old girl.

Judge orders psychiatric test for Christchurch shooting suspect

'Like a Ferrari, you don't need it': New Zealanders set to turn in guns

New Zealand will crack down on firearms ownership this week after the Christchurch mosques massacre that claimed 50 lives -- and the Kiwi gun lobby, for the most part, is okay with that.

In stark contrast to the United States, where even the most minor curbs on gun ownership meet ferocious opposition led by the National Rifle Association, New Zealand gun owners agree action is needed.

The March 15 rampage by a white supremacist gunman has been a shock to the collective system.

"We want to support our government in any changes to prevent a terrorist attack from happening in New Zealand again," Nicole McKee, secretary of the Council of Licensed Firearm Owners said.

Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern's government announced an immediate ban on military-style semi-automatic rifles (MSSAs) after the shooting and will put laws to parliament formalising its action on Tuesday.

Finalising such legislation can often take months but Ardern says the matter is so urgent it will be done by April 11.

Further curbs -- potentially including a gun register, tighter vetting and stricter gun storage rules -- are set to be passed by the end of the year.

In a move that would be unthinkable in the United States, one of New Zealand's largest gun retailers, Hunting &amp; Fishing, voluntarily stopped selling MSSAs and halted online firearms sales.

"Such weapons of war have no place in our business -- or our country," chief executive Darren Jacobs said.

New Zealand has its own National Rifle Association, but since the shooting, it has been at pains to point out it is a small sporting organisation, not a wealthy political lobby group like its American counterpart.

"Our members shoot with single-shot bolt action rifles at paper targets," president Malcolm Dodson said.

Another office holder has told media the New Zealand NRA is considering changing its name to avoid any association with the American body.

On the surface, New Zealand and the United States share many historical similarities, but they have a fundamentally different attitude towards firearms.

Both are former British colonies that fought bitter wars against indigenous populations and forged an individualistic frontier mentality.

However, statistics highlight the difference.

In 2016, New Zealand, with a population of about 4.7 million, had nine firearms-related homicides.

In the United States, population approximately 327 million, there were 14,415, more than two hundred times the per capita rate as New Zealand.&nbsp;

A privilege or a right?

There are approximately 393 million guns in private hands in the United States, or 1.2 for every person, whereas New Zealand has about 1.5 million, or 0.3 per person.

The New Zealand government believes there are 13,500 MSSAs in the country, while estimates put the number in the US at 15 million.

Philip Alperts, a gun policy researcher at the University of Sydney, said the crucial difference between New Zealand and the United States was the US Constitution's Second Amendment, which guarantees the right to keep and bear arms.

Alperts, himself a Kiwi, said countries such as New Zealand viewed gun ownership as a privilege, while in America it was seen as an inalienable right.

"We have a population who, when they travelled to America would get off the plane and be absolutely horrified to see people walking around with a gun," he said, adding that safety was at the centre of New Zealand gun culture.

Journalist Dawn Picken covered scores of shooting deaths in the United States and once had bullets lodged in her bedroom when a random gunman opened fire on her apartment building in Spokane, Washington state.

She said she had found a different mindset since moving to New Zealand in 2011.

"It was quite refreshing as an American to come here and hear Kiwis who own guns say 'I don't think they should be easy to get and it's not my right, they should check I'm not predisposed to violence or going to go off the rails," she said.

'Semi-automatic trifles'

However, like anywhere, New Zealand has a vocal fringe element.

"Tyrant Prime Minister Kills Sports Shooting," screams the headline on one prominent pro-gun website.

But former police minister Judith Collins had a blunt message for the US NRA and any other gun lobbyists who tried to inject themselves into New Zealand's gun control debate: "Bugger off."

The difference in gun cultures has played out on social media since the Christchurch shooting.

When a right-wing US website tweeted that "armed government thugs" were carrying out door-to-door gun confiscations in New Zealand, dozens of Kiwis left mocking replies.

"I had a self-saucing dessert in my pantry," said one. "The cops came for it in the dead of night -- apparently we aren't allowed semi-automatic trifles."

New Zealand will crack down on firearms ownership this week after the Christchurch mosques massacre that claimed 50 lives -- and the Kiwi gun lobby, for the most part, is okay with that.

New Zealand will crack down on firearms ownership this week after the Christchurch mosques massacre that claimed 50 lives -- and the Kiwi gun lobby, for the most part, is okay with that. In stark contrast to the United States, where even the most minor curbs on gun ownership meet ferocious opposition led by the National Rifle Association, New Zealand gun owners agree action is needed. The March 15 rampage by a white supremacist gunman has been a shock to the collective system. "We want to support our government in any changes to prevent a terrorist attack from happening in New Zealand again," Nicole McKee, secretary of the Council of Licensed Firearm Owners said. Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern's government announced an immediate ban on military-style semi-automatic rifles (MSSAs) after the shooting and will put laws to parliament formalising its action on Tuesday. Finalising such legislation can often take months but Ardern says the matter is so urgent it will be done by April 11. Further curbs -- potentially including a gun register, tighter vetting and stricter gun storage rules -- are set to be passed by the end of the year. In a move that would be unthinkable in the United States, one of New Zealand's largest gun retailers, Hunting & Fishing, voluntarily stopped selling MSSAs and halted online firearms sales. "Such weapons of war have no place in our business -- or our country," chief executive Darren Jacobs said. New Zealand has its own National Rifle Association, but since the shooting, it has been at pains to point out it is a small sporting organisation, not a wealthy political lobby group like its American counterpart. "Our members shoot with single-shot bolt action rifles at paper targets," president Malcolm Dodson said. Another office holder has told media the New Zealand NRA is considering changing its name to avoid any association with the American body. On the surface, New Zealand and the United States share many historical similarities, but they have a fundamentally different attitude towards firearms. Both are former British colonies that fought bitter wars against indigenous populations and forged an individualistic frontier mentality. However, statistics highlight the difference. In 2016, New Zealand, with a population of about 4.7 million, had nine firearms-related homicides. In the United States, population approximately 327 million, there were 14,415, more than two hundred times the per capita rate as New Zealand. A privilege or a right? There are approximately 393 million guns in private hands in the United States, or 1.2 for every person, whereas New Zealand has about 1.5 million, or 0.3 per person. The New Zealand government believes there are 13,500 MSSAs in the country, while estimates put the number in the US at 15 million. Philip Alperts, a gun policy researcher at the University of Sydney, said the crucial difference between New Zealand and the United States was the US Constitution's Second Amendment, which guarantees the right to keep and bear arms. Alperts, himself a Kiwi, said countries such as New Zealand viewed gun ownership as a privilege, while in America it was seen as an inalienable right. "We have a population who, when they travelled to America would get off the plane and be absolutely horrified to see people walking around with a gun," he said, adding that safety was at the centre of New Zealand gun culture. Journalist Dawn Picken covered scores of shooting deaths in the United States and once had bullets lodged in her bedroom when a random gunman opened fire on her apartment building in Spokane, Washington state. She said she had found a different mindset since moving to New Zealand in 2011. "It was quite refreshing as an American to come here and hear Kiwis who own guns say 'I don't think they should be easy to get and it's not my right, they should check I'm not predisposed to violence or going to go off the rails," she said. 'Semi-automatic trifles' However, like anywhere, New Zealand has a vocal fringe element. "Tyrant Prime Minister Kills Sports Shooting," screams the headline on one prominent pro-gun website. But former police minister Judith Collins had a blunt message for the US NRA and any other gun lobbyists who tried to inject themselves into New Zealand's gun control debate: "Bugger off." The difference in gun cultures has played out on social media since the Christchurch shooting. When a right-wing US website tweeted that "armed government thugs" were carrying out door-to-door gun confiscations in New Zealand, dozens of Kiwis left mocking replies. "I had a self-saucing dessert in my pantry," said one. "The cops came for it in the dead of night -- apparently we aren't allowed semi-automatic trifles."

New Zealand shooters back gun control after Christchurch massacre

WION Speed News: Watch top national and international news of the morning - March 29th 2019

Candlelight vigil for mosque victims, Second mosque reopens in ChristChurch after attack

New Zealand PM Ardern announces royal commission into Christchurch attack

Many 'march for love' in New Zealand as mosques reopen

New Zealand will hold a national remembrance service on March 29 for the victims of the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/more-than-74-million-donated-to-help-families-in-new-zealand-shooting-205164">Christchurch mosque massacre</a> and their families, the prime minister's office announced on Sunday.

The interfaith service will take place in Christchurch two weeks after an Australian white supremacist shot and killed 50 Muslims who had arrived for Friday prayers at two mosques in the city on March 15.

"The national remembrance service provides an opportunity for Cantabrians (Christchurch-area residents), New Zealanders and people all around the world to come together as one to honour the victims of the terrorist attack," Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern said in a statement.

"In the week since the unprecedented terror attack there has been an outpouring of grief and love in our country.&nbsp;

"The service will be a chance to once again show that New Zealanders are compassionate, inclusive and diverse, and that we will protect those values."

The slaughter has rocked the normally laid-back country and prompted horror worldwide, heightened by the gunman's cold-blooded live streaming of the massacre.&nbsp;

Since then, New Zealanders have responded with an outpouring of support for the country's small Muslim community.&nbsp;

The attack also left dozens of people injured, some critically.

Brenton Tarrant, a 28-year-old Australian, was arrested within minutes of the massacre and has been charged with murder.

New Zealand will hold a national remembrance service on March 29 for the victims of the Christchurch mosque massacre and their families, the prime minister's office announced on Sunday.

New Zealand will hold a national remembrance service on March 29 for the victims of the Christchurch mosque massacre and their families, the prime minister's office announced on Sunday. The interfaith service will take place in Christchurch two weeks after an Australian white supremacist shot and killed 50 Muslims who had arrived for Friday prayers at two mosques in the city on March 15. "The national remembrance service provides an opportunity for Cantabrians (Christchurch-area residents), New Zealanders and people all around the world to come together as one to honour the victims of the terrorist attack," Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern said in a statement. "In the week since the unprecedented terror attack there has been an outpouring of grief and love in our country. "The service will be a chance to once again show that New Zealanders are compassionate, inclusive and diverse, and that we will protect those values." The slaughter has rocked the normally laid-back country and prompted horror worldwide, heightened by the gunman's cold-blooded live streaming of the massacre. Since then, New Zealanders have responded with an outpouring of support for the country's small Muslim community. The attack also left dozens of people injured, some critically. Brenton Tarrant, a 28-year-old Australian, was arrested within minutes of the massacre and has been charged with murder.

New Zealand to hold national remembrance for Christchurch next Friday

Christchurch: Candlelight vigil for Mosque victims at North Hagley Park

The Muslim call to prayer rang out over Christchurch and around New Zealand on Friday, as <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/new-zealand-mosque-shooting-call-to-prayer-two-minute-silence-honour-christchurch-victims-204749">thousands gathered to remember the 50 people killed</a> by a <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/new-zealand-police-visited-mosque-shooter-before-granting-gun-licence-204754">lone gunman at two mosques</a> a week ago.

Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern led an estimated 5,000 people standing quietly at Hagley Park in front of the Al Noor mosque, where most of the victims died.

"New Zealand mourns with you. We are one," she said in a short speech, followed by two minutes of silence.

Most victims of New Zealand's worst mass shooting were migrants or refugees from countries such as Pakistan, India, Malaysia, Indonesia, Turkey, Somalia, Afghanistan and Bangladesh.

"We are broken-hearted, but we are not broken. We are alive, we are together, we are determined to not let anyone divide us," Imam Gamal Fouda told the gathered crowd, many wearing headscarves in support of the grieving Muslim community.

"To the families of the victims, your loved ones did not die in vain. Their blood has watered the seeds of hope," he said in prayers broadcast nationally.

Ardern, who swiftly denounced the attack as terrorism, announced a ban on military-style semi-automatic and assault rifles under tough new gun laws on Thursday.

Australian Brenton Tarrant, 28, a suspected white supremacist, has been charged with one murder following the Christchurch attack and was remanded without a plea.

Tarrant is due back in court on April 5, when police said he was likely to face more charges.

ISLAMOPHOBIA

Ardern, surrounded by ministers and security officials, wore a black headscarf and a black suit. Female police at the park also wore headscarfs, with a red rose on their body suit.

In a powerful speech that lasted about 20 minutes, Imam Gamal said through its love and compassion, New Zealand is unbreakable. He thanked Ardern for her compassion.

"It has been a lesson for world leaders," the Imam said about the prime minister.

"Thank you for holding our families close and honouring us with a simple scarf," he added.

He said Islamophobia dehumanises Muslims and called on the world to end hate speech and the politics of fear.

"Last week's event is proof and evidence to the entire world that terrorism has no colour, race or religion. The rise of white supremacy is a great global threat to humanity and this must end now," he said.

Thousands of people gathered at mosques in Wellington, Auckland and other cities for the prayers, with many non-Muslims wearing headscarves.

"We are wearing headscarves showing our support, love and solidarity, and hope that by everybody doing this it will demonstrate to Muslim women ... that they are one with us," said Robyn Molony, 65, with a group of a friend wearing headscarves at Hagley Park, where they walked daily.

A #headscarfforharmony movement was trending on Twitter.

Muslims account for just over 1 per cent of New Zealand's population, most of whom were born overseas.

"We're not moving on. This grieving is going to take a long time," said 52-year-old Christchurch resident Bell Sibly, who wore a headscarf to show her support.

"But what he's done, he was hoping to divide us, and instead, he's brought us all together in one big hug."

Burials of the victims began on Wednesday, with a final mass burial expected after prayers on Friday.

Residents of Christchurch are still recovering from a devastating earthquake that hit in 2011, killing 185 and injured thousands.

"Since the earthquakes, we’ve gone through a lot as a city and we’re a lot more caring and looking out for one another,” said James Sheehan, 62.

The Muslim call to prayer rang out over Christchurch and around New Zealand on Friday, as thousands gathered to remember the 50 people killed by a lone gunman at two mosques a week ago.

The Muslim call to prayer rang out over Christchurch and around New Zealand on Friday, as thousands gathered to remember the 50 people killed by a lone gunman at two mosques a week ago. Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern led an estimated 5,000 people standing quietly at Hagley Park in front of the Al Noor mosque, where most of the victims died. "New Zealand mourns with you. We are one," she said in a short speech, followed by two minutes of silence. Most victims of New Zealand's worst mass shooting were migrants or refugees from countries such as Pakistan, India, Malaysia, Indonesia, Turkey, Somalia, Afghanistan and Bangladesh. "We are broken-hearted, but we are not broken. We are alive, we are together, we are determined to not let anyone divide us," Imam Gamal Fouda told the gathered crowd, many wearing headscarves in support of the grieving Muslim community. "To the families of the victims, your loved ones did not die in vain. Their blood has watered the seeds of hope," he said in prayers broadcast nationally. Ardern, who swiftly denounced the attack as terrorism, announced a ban on military-style semi-automatic and assault rifles under tough new gun laws on Thursday. Australian Brenton Tarrant, 28, a suspected white supremacist, has been charged with one murder following the Christchurch attack and was remanded without a plea. Tarrant is due back in court on April 5, when police said he was likely to face more charges. ISLAMOPHOBIA Ardern, surrounded by ministers and security officials, wore a black headscarf and a black suit. Female police at the park also wore headscarfs, with a red rose on their body suit. In a powerful speech that lasted about 20 minutes, Imam Gamal said through its love and compassion, New Zealand is unbreakable. He thanked Ardern for her compassion. "It has been a lesson for world leaders," the Imam said about the prime minister. "Thank you for holding our families close and honouring us with a simple scarf," he added. He said Islamophobia dehumanises Muslims and called on the world to end hate speech and the politics of fear. "Last week's event is proof and evidence to the entire world that terrorism has no colour, race or religion. The rise of white supremacy is a great global threat to humanity and this must end now," he said. Thousands of people gathered at mosques in Wellington, Auckland and other cities for the prayers, with many non-Muslims wearing headscarves. "We are wearing headscarves showing our support, love and solidarity, and hope that by everybody doing this it will demonstrate to Muslim women ... that they are one with us," said Robyn Molony, 65, with a group of a friend wearing headscarves at Hagley Park, where they walked daily. A #headscarfforharmony movement was trending on Twitter. Muslims account for just over 1 per cent of New Zealand's population, most of whom were born overseas. "We're not moving on. This grieving is going to take a long time," said 52-year-old Christchurch resident Bell Sibly, who wore a headscarf to show her support. "But what he's done, he was hoping to divide us, and instead, he's brought us all together in one big hug." Burials of the victims began on Wednesday, with a final mass burial expected after prayers on Friday. Residents of Christchurch are still recovering from a devastating earthquake that hit in 2011, killing 185 and injured thousands. "Since the earthquakes, we’ve gone through a lot as a city and we’re a lot more caring and looking out for one another,” said James Sheehan, 62.

'We are one,' says PM Ardern as New Zealand mourns with prayers, silence

A Bangladeshi cricketer who narrowly escaped last week's <a href="https://www.wionews.com/search?q=Christchurch+shooting">deadly mosque attacks in New Zealand</a> married his fiancee Friday.

Off-spinner Mehidy Hasan was among 17 members of the Bangladesh Test cricket team touring New Zealand who were driven up to a Christchurch mosque as the shooting began. &nbsp;

They later watched as blood-soaked victims staggered from the building, according to team manager Khaled Mashud, who said if they had arrived just a few minutes later the team could have been caught up in the massacre.&nbsp;

Mehidy announced that he had married his long-term sweetheart Rabeya Akhter Priti on Thursday in a ceremony in the southwestern Bangladeshi city of Khulna.

"I am starting a new journey in my life today. I would like to request the blessings of all my fans and well wishers for my new beginning. May the Rahmat of Allah always shower upon us," Mehidy said in his official Facebook page.

Meanwhile, pace bowler Mustafizur Rahman was due to marry his cousin, psychology student Samia Parvin Shimu, in their rural home on Friday, his brother told AFP.

"We were looking for a suitable time for his marriage... Now if&nbsp;it can help him overcome the shock, we will be really happy," Mahfuzur Rahman said.

The team was in Christchurch for their third and final Test match against the home side scheduled to begin last Saturday, which was promptly cancelled to allow the cricketers to return home.

Fifty people died in attacks on two mosques in Christchurch in what is believed to be the worst assault on Muslims in a Western country.&nbsp;Five Bangladeshis were among those killed.

A Bangladeshi cricketer who narrowly escaped last week's deadly mosque attacks in New Zealand married his fiancee Friday. Off-spinner Mehidy Hasan was among 17 members of the Bangladesh Test cricket team touring New Zealand who were driven up to a Christchurch mosque as the shooting began.

A Bangladeshi cricketer who narrowly escaped last week's deadly mosque attacks in New Zealand married his fiancee Friday. Off-spinner Mehidy Hasan was among 17 members of the Bangladesh Test cricket team touring New Zealand who were driven up to a Christchurch mosque as the shooting began. They later watched as blood-soaked victims staggered from the building, according to team manager Khaled Mashud, who said if they had arrived just a few minutes later the team could have been caught up in the massacre. Mehidy announced that he had married his long-term sweetheart Rabeya Akhter Priti on Thursday in a ceremony in the southwestern Bangladeshi city of Khulna. "I am starting a new journey in my life today. I would like to request the blessings of all my fans and well wishers for my new beginning. May the Rahmat of Allah always shower upon us," Mehidy said in his official Facebook page. Meanwhile, pace bowler Mustafizur Rahman was due to marry his cousin, psychology student Samia Parvin Shimu, in their rural home on Friday, his brother told AFP. "We were looking for a suitable time for his marriage... Now if it can help him overcome the shock, we will be really happy," Mahfuzur Rahman said. The team was in Christchurch for their third and final Test match against the home side scheduled to begin last Saturday, which was promptly cancelled to allow the cricketers to return home. Fifty people died in attacks on two mosques in Christchurch in what is believed to be the worst assault on Muslims in a Western country. Five Bangladeshis were among those killed.

Bangladesh cricketer marries after surviving New Zealand mosque horror

New Zealand on Friday reassured Muslims living in the country they would be "safe and secure" despite the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/new-zealand-police-visited-mosque-shooter-before-granting-gun-licence-204754">deadly attacks on two mosques</a> in Christchurch.

"Ensuring Muslim communities in New Zealand feel safe and secure is a particular focus," New Zealand Foreign Minister Winston Peters told an emergency meeting of the Organisation of Islamic Cooperation in Istanbul.

Turkey's Foreign Minister Mevlut Cavusoglu praised New Zealand authorities and their "sincere solidarity messages".&nbsp;

"We are here to show we are one body against Islamophobic actions across the world," he said.

Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan, campaigning for local elections this month, has presented the attack as an assault on Islam and has demanded the West do more to counter Islamophobia.

He has angered New Zealand by repeatedly showing a video made by the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/we-are-one-says-pm-ardern-as-new-zealand-mourns-with-prayers-silence-204796">mosque gunman of the attack that killed 50 people</a>.

Erdogan has also angered Australia with comments about anti-Muslim Australians being sent back in "coffins" like their grandfathers at Gallipoli, a World War I battle.

The accused gunman, a self-avowed white supremacist from Australia, livestreamed much of the attack and spread a manifesto on social media claiming it was a strike against Muslim "invaders".

New Zealand on Friday reassured Muslims living in the country they would be "safe and secure" despite the deadly attacks on two mosques in Christchurch. "Ensuring Muslim communities in New Zealand feel safe and secure is a particular focus," New Zealand Foreign Minister Winston Peters told an emergency meeting of the Organisation of Islamic Cooperation in Istanbul.

New Zealand on Friday reassured Muslims living in the country they would be "safe and secure" despite the deadly attacks on two mosques in Christchurch. "Ensuring Muslim communities in New Zealand feel safe and secure is a particular focus," New Zealand Foreign Minister Winston Peters told an emergency meeting of the Organisation of Islamic Cooperation in Istanbul. Turkey's Foreign Minister Mevlut Cavusoglu praised New Zealand authorities and their "sincere solidarity messages". "We are here to show we are one body against Islamophobic actions across the world," he said. Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan, campaigning for local elections this month, has presented the attack as an assault on Islam and has demanded the West do more to counter Islamophobia. He has angered New Zealand by repeatedly showing a video made by the mosque gunman of the attack that killed 50 people. Erdogan has also angered Australia with comments about anti-Muslim Australians being sent back in "coffins" like their grandfathers at Gallipoli, a World War I battle. The accused gunman, a self-avowed white supremacist from Australia, livestreamed much of the attack and spread a manifesto on social media claiming it was a strike against Muslim "invaders".

Muslims in New Zealand will be 'safe': Foreign minister to OIC

New Zealand massacre: Funeral for 4 of 50 victims held in Christchurch

Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan on Thursday showed again a gruesome video shot by the Christchurch mosque gunman as an election campaign prop despite criticism from New Zealand authorities.

On election trail for a March 31 local vote, Erdogan has projected the video and repeatedly referenced the attack that killed 50 people, saying it targeted Islam and Turkey.

The gunman's so-called "manifesto" mentions Turkey and the minarets of Istanbul's landmark Hagia Sophia, now a museum, that was once a church before becoming a mosque during the Ottoman empire.

New Zealand's Deputy Prime Minister Winston Peters protested on Monday that politicisation of the massacre "imperils the future and safety of the New Zealand people and our people abroad, and it's totally unfair".

At a rally in the northwestern city of Eskisehir, Erdogan again showed both the video and the so-called manifesto in order to attack the main opposition party leader Kemal Kilicdaroglu who had warned against "terrorism rooted in the Islamic world."

Erdogan compared Kilicdaroglu to far-right Australian senator Fraser Anning, who drew ire for blaming the New Zealand attacks on Muslim immigration.&nbsp;

New Zealand authorities moved quickly to try and stop the spread of the shooter's video, warning that anyone sharing the footage faced prosecution, and Facebook removed the images from hundreds of thousands of pages.

Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan on Thursday showed again a gruesome video shot by the Christchurch mosque gunman as an election campaign prop despite criticism from New Zealand authorities.

Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan on Thursday showed again a gruesome video shot by the Christchurch mosque gunman as an election campaign prop despite criticism from New Zealand authorities. On election trail for a March 31 local vote, Erdogan has projected the video and repeatedly referenced the attack that killed 50 people, saying it targeted Islam and Turkey. The gunman's so-called "manifesto" mentions Turkey and the minarets of Istanbul's landmark Hagia Sophia, now a museum, that was once a church before becoming a mosque during the Ottoman empire. New Zealand's Deputy Prime Minister Winston Peters protested on Monday that politicisation of the massacre "imperils the future and safety of the New Zealand people and our people abroad, and it's totally unfair". At a rally in the northwestern city of Eskisehir, Erdogan again showed both the video and the so-called manifesto in order to attack the main opposition party leader Kemal Kilicdaroglu who had warned against "terrorism rooted in the Islamic world." Erdogan compared Kilicdaroglu to far-right Australian senator Fraser Anning, who drew ire for blaming the New Zealand attacks on Muslim immigration. New Zealand authorities moved quickly to try and stop the spread of the shooter's video, warning that anyone sharing the footage faced prosecution, and Facebook removed the images from hundreds of thousands of pages.

Turkey's Erdogan again shows mosque attack video despite New Zealand outrage

An employee at a Dubai-based security company was fired and deported for celebrating the deadly <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/christchurch-mass-shooting-new-zealand-police-charge-second-man-with-sharing-livestream-of-massacre-204521">New Zealand mosque attacks </a>under a fake identity on Facebook, the group said Wednesday.

"Over the weekend, a Transguard employee made inflammatory comments on his personal Facebook account celebrating the deplorable mosque attack in Christchurch, New Zealand," the Transguard security group said in a statement.

"Despite posting under a false name, the employee responsible for last weekend's inflammatory (Facebook) comments has been identified, terminated as per Transguard policy and handed over to the authorities."

Transguard, which is affiliated with the Emirates Group that includes Emirates Airline, said the man had been deported by the UAE government.

It did not name him or reveal his nationality.

An Australian white supremacist shot dead 50 Muslims praying at two mosques in Christchurch, New Zealand on Friday.

The attacks sparked global revulsion and drew condemnation from the United Arab Emirates.

In a statement following the attacks, the foreign ministry said the UAE stood in "full solidarity with the friendly state of New Zealand to confront extremism and terrorism and... safeguard the security and the safety of its citizens and all residents". 
&nbsp;

An employee at a Dubai-based security company was fired and deported for celebrating the deadly New Zealand mosque attacks under a fake identity on Facebook, the group said Wednesday.

An employee at a Dubai-based security company was fired and deported for celebrating the deadly New Zealand mosque attacks under a fake identity on Facebook, the group said Wednesday. "Over the weekend, a Transguard employee made inflammatory comments on his personal Facebook account celebrating the deplorable mosque attack in Christchurch, New Zealand," the Transguard security group said in a statement. "Despite posting under a false name, the employee responsible for last weekend's inflammatory (Facebook) comments has been identified, terminated as per Transguard policy and handed over to the authorities." Transguard, which is affiliated with the Emirates Group that includes Emirates Airline, said the man had been deported by the UAE government. It did not name him or reveal his nationality. An Australian white supremacist shot dead 50 Muslims praying at two mosques in Christchurch, New Zealand on Friday. The attacks sparked global revulsion and drew condemnation from the United Arab Emirates. In a statement following the attacks, the foreign ministry said the UAE stood in "full solidarity with the friendly state of New Zealand to confront extremism and terrorism and... safeguard the security and the safety of its citizens and all residents".

Man sacked and deported from UAE for praising Christchurch mass shooting

A 44-year-old man has become the second person charged with sharing a <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/christchurch-teenager-charged-with-distributing-mosque-rampage-livestream-204041">gruesome livestream video of the deadly attack at a Christchurch mosque</a>, as New Zealand Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern called for a global response to the dangers of social media.

Philip Arps, 44, was arrested by New Zealand Police on Tuesday, four days after 28-year-old Australian <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/new-zealand-six-bodies-of-christchurch-massacre-victims-released-to-their-families-after-delay-204318">Brenton Tarrant went on a rampage at two mosques</a> in the southern city, killing 50 people and wounding dozens more.

The livestream video was shot by Tarrant, who is facing one initial charge of murder for the killings at Al Noor and Linwood mosques.

Arps was charged with two counts of distributing objectionable material under the Films Act and was remanded in custody after appearing in Christchurch District Court on Wednesday.

Arps, who is due back in court on April 15, has attracted controversy for owning a company with <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/hate-crimes-white-supremacist-groups-existed-in-new-zealands-christchruch-report-204349">Nazi-themed branding</a>. The firm's logo is a sun wheel, which was appropriated by the Nazis.

A teenager appeared in court earlier this week on the same charge.

Facebook said the livestream was viewed fewer than 200 times but it has had to remove a staggering 1.5 million videos as footage of the slaughter went viral.

Ardern said Wednesday that while her focus was on the people of New Zealand, there were issues world leaders needed to confront collectively.

"We cannot, for instance, just simply deal with some of the issues we face with our social media to be dealt with on a case by case basis," she said.&nbsp;

"There is an argument there to be made for us to take a united front on a global issue.

"This is not just an issue for New Zealand, the fact that social media platforms have been used to spread violence (and) material that incites violence. All of us need to present a united front."

Arps' court appearance came as the first funerals of the victims were held, with more expected to take place later Wednesday and on Thursday as officials release the victims' bodies to their families.

A 44-year-old man has become the second person charged with sharing a gruesome livestream video of the deadly attack at a Christchurch mosque, as New Zealand Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern called for a global response to the dangers of social media.

A 44-year-old man has become the second person charged with sharing a gruesome livestream video of the deadly attack at a Christchurch mosque, as New Zealand Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern called for a global response to the dangers of social media. Philip Arps, 44, was arrested by New Zealand Police on Tuesday, four days after 28-year-old Australian Brenton Tarrant went on a rampage at two mosques in the southern city, killing 50 people and wounding dozens more. The livestream video was shot by Tarrant, who is facing one initial charge of murder for the killings at Al Noor and Linwood mosques. Arps was charged with two counts of distributing objectionable material under the Films Act and was remanded in custody after appearing in Christchurch District Court on Wednesday. Arps, who is due back in court on April 15, has attracted controversy for owning a company with Nazi-themed branding. The firm's logo is a sun wheel, which was appropriated by the Nazis. A teenager appeared in court earlier this week on the same charge. Facebook said the livestream was viewed fewer than 200 times but it has had to remove a staggering 1.5 million videos as footage of the slaughter went viral. Ardern said Wednesday that while her focus was on the people of New Zealand, there were issues world leaders needed to confront collectively. "We cannot, for instance, just simply deal with some of the issues we face with our social media to be dealt with on a case by case basis," she said. "There is an argument there to be made for us to take a united front on a global issue. "This is not just an issue for New Zealand, the fact that social media platforms have been used to spread violence (and) material that incites violence. All of us need to present a united front." Arps' court appearance came as the first funerals of the victims were held, with more expected to take place later Wednesday and on Thursday as officials release the victims' bodies to their families.

Christchurch  mass shooting: New Zealand police charge second man with sharing livestream of massacre

The bodies of six of the Christchurch massacre victims have been released to their families, New Zealand police said Tuesday, but they warned only a fraction of the 50 people killed had been fully identified, with the delay angering anguished relatives.

Muslims whose loved ones were gunned down by an Australian white supremacist at two mosques last Friday have had their grief compounded by the failure of the authorities to return bodies to families in time for a speedy burial, as required under Islamic custom.

Police in Christchurch said only 12 of the 50 victims had been identified and appeared to warn next of kin to brace for further delays.

"We are doing all we can to undertake this work as quickly as possible and return the victims to their loved ones," a police statement said.

"While identification may seem straightforward the reality is much more complex, particularly in a situation like this."

Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern vowed on Tuesday that gunman Brenton Tarrant would face the "full force of the law" as she opened a sombre session of parliament with an evocative "as-salaam alaikum" message of peace to Muslims.

But the black-clad Ardern pledged to grieving Kiwis that she would deprive the 28-year-old gunman of the publicity he craved by never uttering his name.

"That is why you will never hear me mention his name. He is a terrorist. He is a criminal. He is an extremist. But he will, when I speak, be nameless," she told assembled lawmakers.

"I implore you: Speak the names of those who were lost rather than the name of the man who took them."

The 38-year-old leader closed by noting that Friday marks a week since the attack, and urged New Zealanders to grieve along with them.&nbsp;

"Wa alaikum salaam wa rahmatullahi wa barakatuh," she said -- "May the peace, mercy, and blessings of Allah be with you too."

Families gather

But the forensic delays are casting a cloud over New Zealand's handling of the horrific ordeal.

Dozens of relatives of the deceased have already begun arriving from around the world ahead of expected funerals which have already been delayed far beyond the 24 hours after death usually observed under Islam.

Peter Elms of New Zealand's immigration department said 65 visas had been granted for overseas family members so far.

Christchurch police said post-mortems had been completed on all 50 victims.

But only 12 had been "identified to the satisfaction of the coroner" nearly a week after the rampage.

Javed Dadabhai, who travelled from Auckland to help bury his cousin, said families and volunteers had been warned of a slow process.

"The majority of people still have not had the opportunity to see their family members," he told AFP.

Mohamed Safi, 23, whose father Matiullah Safi died in Al Noor mosque, pleaded for officials to let him identify his father and set a date for his burial.

"There's nothing they are offering," Safi, an Afghan refugee, said outside a family support centre.

"They are just saying they are doing their procedures, they are doing their process. But what process? Why do I not know what you are going through to identify the body... Why am I not contacted as an immediate family member?"

In a rambling manifesto, the gunman had said he was motivated partly by a desire to stoke a violent response from Muslims and a religious war between Islam and the West.

The Islamic State group, in a message on social media, appeared to encourage retaliatory attacks.

"The scenes of killing in the two mosques... incite members of the caliphate living there to avenge their religion and the children of the umma (Muslims) who were are being slaughtered in all corners of the earth with the sponsorship and blessing of the Crusader countries," it said.

Gun control

Following the mass shooting, Ardern has promised to reform New Zealand laws that allowed the gunman to legally purchase weapons used in the attack.

New Zealanders have already begun answering government appeals to hand in their weapons, including John Hart, a farmer in the North Island district of Masterton.

Hart said it was an easy decision for him to hand in his semi-automatic and tweeted: "on the farm they are a useful tool in some circumstances, but my convenience doesn't outweigh the risk of misuse. We don't need these in our country."

The tweet drew a barrage of derogatory messages to his Facebook account -- most apparently from the US, where the pro-gun lobby is powerful.

Ardern has said details of the proposed reform will be announced by next week, but she indicated they could include gun buybacks and a ban on some semi-automatic rifles.

The bodies of six of the Christchurch massacre victims have been released to their families, New Zealand police said Tuesday, but they warned only a fraction of the 50 people killed had been fully identified, with the delay angering anguished relatives.

The bodies of six of the Christchurch massacre victims have been released to their families, New Zealand police said Tuesday, but they warned only a fraction of the 50 people killed had been fully identified, with the delay angering anguished relatives. Muslims whose loved ones were gunned down by an Australian white supremacist at two mosques last Friday have had their grief compounded by the failure of the authorities to return bodies to families in time for a speedy burial, as required under Islamic custom. Police in Christchurch said only 12 of the 50 victims had been identified and appeared to warn next of kin to brace for further delays. "We are doing all we can to undertake this work as quickly as possible and return the victims to their loved ones," a police statement said. "While identification may seem straightforward the reality is much more complex, particularly in a situation like this." Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern vowed on Tuesday that gunman Brenton Tarrant would face the "full force of the law" as she opened a sombre session of parliament with an evocative "as-salaam alaikum" message of peace to Muslims. But the black-clad Ardern pledged to grieving Kiwis that she would deprive the 28-year-old gunman of the publicity he craved by never uttering his name. "That is why you will never hear me mention his name. He is a terrorist. He is a criminal. He is an extremist. But he will, when I speak, be nameless," she told assembled lawmakers. "I implore you: Speak the names of those who were lost rather than the name of the man who took them." The 38-year-old leader closed by noting that Friday marks a week since the attack, and urged New Zealanders to grieve along with them. "Wa alaikum salaam wa rahmatullahi wa barakatuh," she said -- "May the peace, mercy, and blessings of Allah be with you too." Families gather But the forensic delays are casting a cloud over New Zealand's handling of the horrific ordeal. Dozens of relatives of the deceased have already begun arriving from around the world ahead of expected funerals which have already been delayed far beyond the 24 hours after death usually observed under Islam. Peter Elms of New Zealand's immigration department said 65 visas had been granted for overseas family members so far. Christchurch police said post-mortems had been completed on all 50 victims. But only 12 had been "identified to the satisfaction of the coroner" nearly a week after the rampage. Javed Dadabhai, who travelled from Auckland to help bury his cousin, said families and volunteers had been warned of a slow process. "The majority of people still have not had the opportunity to see their family members," he told AFP. Mohamed Safi, 23, whose father Matiullah Safi died in Al Noor mosque, pleaded for officials to let him identify his father and set a date for his burial. "There's nothing they are offering," Safi, an Afghan refugee, said outside a family support centre. "They are just saying they are doing their procedures, they are doing their process. But what process? Why do I not know what you are going through to identify the body... Why am I not contacted as an immediate family member?" In a rambling manifesto, the gunman had said he was motivated partly by a desire to stoke a violent response from Muslims and a religious war between Islam and the West. The Islamic State group, in a message on social media, appeared to encourage retaliatory attacks. "The scenes of killing in the two mosques... incite members of the caliphate living there to avenge their religion and the children of the umma (Muslims) who were are being slaughtered in all corners of the earth with the sponsorship and blessing of the Crusader countries," it said. Gun control Following the mass shooting, Ardern has promised to reform New Zealand laws that allowed the gunman to legally purchase weapons used in the attack. New Zealanders have already begun answering government appeals to hand in their weapons, including John Hart, a farmer in the North Island district of Masterton. Hart said it was an easy decision for him to hand in his semi-automatic and tweeted: "on the farm they are a useful tool in some circumstances, but my convenience doesn't outweigh the risk of misuse. We don't need these in our country." The tweet drew a barrage of derogatory messages to his Facebook account -- most apparently from the US, where the pro-gun lobby is powerful. Ardern has said details of the proposed reform will be announced by next week, but she indicated they could include gun buybacks and a ban on some semi-automatic rifles.

New Zealand: Six bodies of Christchurch massacre victims released to their families after delay

Police in the Dutch city of&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/shooting-at-several-locations-in-hollands-utrecht-city-counter-terrorism-agency-204108">Utrecht in&nbsp;The Netherlands</a> said that they had arrested a man believed to be the main suspect behind the shooting incident on a tram earlier on Monday in which three people were killed.

Police said the accused was arrested during a raid on The Old Town in Utrecht.&nbsp;"We have just been informed that the suspect has been arrested," Utrecht police chief Rob van Bree said.

The head of the Dutch national counter-terrorism service, Pieter-Jaap Aalbersberg, confirmed "the arrest of the main suspect for the shooting".

The police had earlier released a picture of a &nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/police-release-picture-of-man-linked-to-utrecht-shooting-204132">Turkish-born suspect Gokmen Tanis, 37,</a> as the person responsible for the firing incident&nbsp;at 24 Oktoberplein, a busy junction underneath a highway bridge.

Dutch Prime Minister Mark Rutte said a terror attack "could not be excluded", while adding that the Netherlands would "never give way to intolerance".

"We are working on the principle that it was a terrorist attack," Utrecht Mayor Jan van Zanen said. The police including the mayor said three people were killed in the shooting and five were injured.

<iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/fuSCx_a92QI" width="560"></iframe>

Mosques in Utrecht had shut for the day following the attack, the incident occurred just days after the attack on mosques in Christchurch, New Zealand in which which at least 49 people were killed.

Security agencies immediately moved in to close the area and launched a manhunt as the gunman fled as soon as he fired shots at the tram. Airports and train stations were put on high alert as the security forces searched for the gunman.

British Foreign Secretary Jeremy Hunt said it was "hugely concerning news of a gunman opening fire on a tram in Utrecht, no doubt with innocent people just getting on with their day... The UK stands with the people of the Netherlands."

Police in the Dutch city of Utrecht in The Netherlands said that they had arrested a man believed to be the main suspect behind the shooting incident on a tram earlier on Monday in which three people were killed.

Police in the Dutch city of Utrecht in The Netherlands said that they had arrested a man believed to be the main suspect behind the shooting incident on a tram earlier on Monday in which three people were killed. Police said the accused was arrested during a raid on The Old Town in Utrecht. "We have just been informed that the suspect has been arrested," Utrecht police chief Rob van Bree said. The head of the Dutch national counter-terrorism service, Pieter-Jaap Aalbersberg, confirmed "the arrest of the main suspect for the shooting". The police had earlier released a picture of a Turkish-born suspect Gokmen Tanis, 37, as the person responsible for the firing incident at 24 Oktoberplein, a busy junction underneath a highway bridge. Dutch Prime Minister Mark Rutte said a terror attack "could not be excluded", while adding that the Netherlands would "never give way to intolerance". "We are working on the principle that it was a terrorist attack," Utrecht Mayor Jan van Zanen said. The police including the mayor said three people were killed in the shooting and five were injured. Mosques in Utrecht had shut for the day following the attack, the incident occurred just days after the attack on mosques in Christchurch, New Zealand in which which at least 49 people were killed. Security agencies immediately moved in to close the area and launched a manhunt as the gunman fled as soon as he fired shots at the tram. Airports and train stations were put on high alert as the security forces searched for the gunman. British Foreign Secretary Jeremy Hunt said it was "hugely concerning news of a gunman opening fire on a tram in Utrecht, no doubt with innocent people just getting on with their day... The UK stands with the people of the Netherlands."

Suspected Utrecht shooter arrested, say police

A lone gunman in New Zealand opened fire in Christchurch city this week. The gunman targeted two mosques killing fifty Muslim worshippers praying inside.

The latest mass shooting incident has put the spotlight on white supremacist groups' existence and how it is on the rise in the country which is mostly known for being one of&nbsp;the world's safest and tolerant countries.

According to a report by Associated Press, such hate crimes and Islamophobia have existed in the city long before this incident and now are on the rise. However such groups have&nbsp;relatively been quite in the city since the 2011 earthquake.

"They've been quieter recently but they haven't gone away. They are still here," &nbsp;an Academic Paul Spoonley said, citing a 2016 incident in which pigs' heads were left at the Al Noor mosque, one of the mosques where Australian Brenton Tarrant opened fire on March 15.

According to the report, Muslim communities living in the country have experienced verbal abuse, assaults, hate emails, phone calls but the local authorities have failed to take appropriate measures to tackle the issue.

The country does not even have an official hate crimes database which makes it difficult to measure the trend, the report claimed.

The report further quoted Spoonley saying that the level of hate crimes in New Zealand is low compared with other countries as is the number of white supremacists, but it’s "always a challenge to get people to accept that they exist."

"There’s a reluctance to see equivalence between the risks presented by right-wing extremist groups and radical Islamic and leftist groups," he said.

According to the estimates by Spoonley mentioned in the report, there are 200-250 hardcore white supremacists in New Zealand and about 300-400 people on the edges.

Brenton Tarrant, a 28-year-old Australian&nbsp;started shooting with automatic rifles on March 15. He then drove away to second mosque and started shooting again.

The majority of victims were migrants or refugees from countries such as Pakistan, India, Malaysia, Indonesia, Turkey, Somalia, Afghanistan and Bangladesh. The youngest was a three-year-old boy, born in New Zealand to Somali refugee parents.

In his 73-page manifesto released just before he live-streamed his attack, Tarrant who was captured by police expressed extreme anti-immigrant and anti-Muslim views.&nbsp;

Following Tarrant's arrest, New Zealand's prime minister Jacinda Ardern informed in the parliament that he has been charged with one count of murder and assured and other charges would also follow.

"He will face the full force of the law in New Zealand," she said.

Ardern also has promised reforms to New Zealand gun laws which allowed Tarrant to legally purchase the weapons he used in the attack, including semi-automatic rifles.

And she announced a full review of how the Australian -- an avowed white supremacist -- was able to plan and carry out the attacks in New Zealand under the radar of security services.

(With inputs from news agencies)

A lone gunman in New Zealand opened fire in Christchurch city this week. The gunman targeted two mosques killing fifty Muslim worshippers praying inside. The latest mass shooting incident has put the spotlight on white supremacist groups' existence and how it is on the rise in the country which is mostly known for being one of the world's safest and tolerant countries.

A lone gunman in New Zealand opened fire in Christchurch city this week. The gunman targeted two mosques killing fifty Muslim worshippers praying inside. The latest mass shooting incident has put the spotlight on white supremacist groups' existence and how it is on the rise in the country which is mostly known for being one of the world's safest and tolerant countries. According to a report by Associated Press, such hate crimes and Islamophobia have existed in the city long before this incident and now are on the rise. However such groups have relatively been quite in the city since the 2011 earthquake. "They've been quieter recently but they haven't gone away. They are still here," an Academic Paul Spoonley said, citing a 2016 incident in which pigs' heads were left at the Al Noor mosque, one of the mosques where Australian Brenton Tarrant opened fire on March 15. According to the report, Muslim communities living in the country have experienced verbal abuse, assaults, hate emails, phone calls but the local authorities have failed to take appropriate measures to tackle the issue. The country does not even have an official hate crimes database which makes it difficult to measure the trend, the report claimed. The report further quoted Spoonley saying that the level of hate crimes in New Zealand is low compared with other countries as is the number of white supremacists, but it’s "always a challenge to get people to accept that they exist." "There’s a reluctance to see equivalence between the risks presented by right-wing extremist groups and radical Islamic and leftist groups," he said. According to the estimates by Spoonley mentioned in the report, there are 200-250 hardcore white supremacists in New Zealand and about 300-400 people on the edges. Brenton Tarrant, a 28-year-old Australian started shooting with automatic rifles on March 15. He then drove away to second mosque and started shooting again. The majority of victims were migrants or refugees from countries such as Pakistan, India, Malaysia, Indonesia, Turkey, Somalia, Afghanistan and Bangladesh. The youngest was a three-year-old boy, born in New Zealand to Somali refugee parents. In his 73-page manifesto released just before he live-streamed his attack, Tarrant who was captured by police expressed extreme anti-immigrant and anti-Muslim views. Following Tarrant's arrest, New Zealand's prime minister Jacinda Ardern informed in the parliament that he has been charged with one count of murder and assured and other charges would also follow. "He will face the full force of the law in New Zealand," she said. Ardern also has promised reforms to New Zealand gun laws which allowed Tarrant to legally purchase the weapons he used in the attack, including semi-automatic rifles. And she announced a full review of how the Australian -- an avowed white supremacist -- was able to plan and carry out the attacks in New Zealand under the radar of security services. (With inputs from news agencies)

Hate crimes, white supremacist groups have existed in New Zealand's Christchurch: Report

On the grass outside a church in New Zealand lie 50 pairs of white shoes, each representing one of the lives lost in a <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/49-killed-in-christchurch-mosque-attack-one-person-charged-new-zealand-police-203495">mass shooting at two mosques</a> in the community just a few days ago.

The city of Christchurch has come together in mourning following the attack, which saw a lone gunman open fire on worshippers during Friday (March 15) prayers.

"One of the sort of things we were aware of was the tradition of taking off your shoes as you went into worship. And suddenly the thought that there were 49 and 50 pairs of shoes that would never be filled again, was just an image that just kept coming back," said Megan Merles-Mooar, the vicar of All Souls Church.

"It's been a beautiful opportunity for the community to come somewhere to grieve and to mourn," said one of the church's members, adding that people of all faith had come to view the shoes.

As preparations for the first burials were underway on Tuesday (March 19), New Zealand's Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern praised the bravery and courage by mosque worshippers as the gunman massacred their friends and family, saying the nation stood with its grieving Muslim community in this "darkest of days".

On the grass outside a church in New Zealand lie 50 pairs of white shoes, each representing one of the lives lost in a mass shooting at two mosques in the community just a few days ago.

On the grass outside a church in New Zealand lie 50 pairs of white shoes, each representing one of the lives lost in a mass shooting at two mosques in the community just a few days ago. The city of Christchurch has come together in mourning following the attack, which saw a lone gunman open fire on worshippers during Friday (March 15) prayers. "One of the sort of things we were aware of was the tradition of taking off your shoes as you went into worship. And suddenly the thought that there were 49 and 50 pairs of shoes that would never be filled again, was just an image that just kept coming back," said Megan Merles-Mooar, the vicar of All Souls Church. "It's been a beautiful opportunity for the community to come somewhere to grieve and to mourn," said one of the church's members, adding that people of all faith had come to view the shoes. As preparations for the first burials were underway on Tuesday (March 19), New Zealand's Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern praised the bravery and courage by mosque worshippers as the gunman massacred their friends and family, saying the nation stood with its grieving Muslim community in this "darkest of days".

White shoes line church in memory of Christchurch shooting victims