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New Zealand shooting: gun laws will change, says Ardern – latest updates
New Zealand shooting: gun laws will change, says Ardern – latest updates
(32 minutes later)
Closing her press conference, Ardern has said:
I want to finish by saying that while the nation grapples with a form of grief and anger that we have not experienced before, we are seeking answers. As is the entire nation, we are all unified in grieving together.
She added:
Rhetoric of racism, division and extremism has no place not only in New Zealand but I would say in a society as a whole.
Police helicopters are continuously circling overhead the city, while approximately 100 members of media organisations wait for the accused to appear. Armed police and soldiers are also visible.
The court was scheduled to open at 9am (local time) but has not. Omar Nabi and his brother are waiting to enter the courthouse – Nabi says he needs to see the man who killed his father.
Michael Orczy, the vicar of St Michael’s church, is standing outside the courthouse after giving mass to parishes across the road. He says New Zealand’s entire religious community stands with their Muslim brothers and sisters and religious violence has no place in the country.
This was an undeniable act of evil. God loves all his children equally. We are all shell-shocked. This is surreal in New Zealand. I have had to rewrite my sermon for Sunday.
We will be with our Muslim brothers and sisters every step of the way. This is an attack on God’s children. God loves all his children equally. This right-wing element in mellow Christchurch is surreal. I am preaching compassion and peace today. Revenge is never the answer.
New Zealand’s prime minister, Jacinda Ardern, says she told the US president, Donald Trump, to show all Muslim communities “sympathy and love” when he asked what he could do in the aftermath of the Christchurch mosque attacks.
She made the pointed comments in a press conference held as she prepared to travel to Christchurch early on Saturday morning, local time.
Trump had earlier tweeted that he had spoken to Ardern and that the US stood with New Zealand following the deadly attacks.
Just spoke with Jacinda Ardern, the Prime Minister of New Zealand, regarding the horrific events that have taken place over the past 24 hours. I informed the Prime Minister....
....that we stand in solidarity with New Zealand – and that any assistance the U.S.A. can give, we stand by ready to help. We love you New Zealand!
Speaking to a pool reporter, Trump had insisted he does not see white nationalism as a rising problem, he said:
I don’t really, I think it’s a small group of people.
Trump called the attacks a “horrible act” and said he had not seen the suspect’s manifesto.
Seeking to put his reaction into some context, the Washington Post published an opinion piece, entitled: “A short history of President Trump’s anti-Muslim bigotry”. In it, the political scientist, Brian Klaas, accuses Trump of being an “Islamophobic bigot”.
Pressed on the matter of far-right extremists, she says the security services had “increased their work in that area but, even then, this particular individual was not known” to them, meaning there will be questions to be answered.
Ardern lists many of the world leaders, including Donald Trump, who have expressed their condolences. She says Trump asked what help he and the US could offer and says she told him: “Sympathy and love for all Muslim communities.” Ardern adds that Trump “acknowledged that and agreed”.
She says the two didn’t discuss references to Trump in the suspect’s manifesto.
Asked if she believes one person was responsible for the attacks carried out in each of the two locations, she says authorities are still trying to ascertain the level of involvement of the two other people in custody.
Asked about whether or not a terror charge would be forthcoming, she prefers not to comment, saying it is an operational matter.
Addressing her comments on gun laws, Ardern says the “mere fact” the suspect was able to get a gun licence and get hold of high-powered weapons will mean people will want to see change – and she is committing to supporting that.
She did not, however, go into specifics.
Ardern said the suspect got a category A licence in 2017 and she is advised that he started stockpiling the weapons legally soon afterwards.
Asked if there are any far-right sympathisers on the country’s watchlist, she is vague – referring only to anyone who supports violence – and noting that the government’s work in that area did not bring the suspect to officials’ attention.
She says the national threat level remains at high and, consequently, increased aviation and border security measures will be in place.
She says the national threat level remains at high and, consequently, increased aviation and border security measures will be in place.
The New Zealand prime minister pays tribute to the emergency services personnel who responded to the incident.
The New Zealand prime minister pays tribute to the emergency services personnel who responded to the incident.
Ardern also says mental health facilities will be provided and has invited anyone who needs help to call or text 1737.
Ardern also says mental health facilities will be provided and has invited anyone who needs help to call or text 1737.
Confirming that the suspect had a licence to have a firearm when the attacks took place in Christchurch, New Zealand’s prime minister Jacinda Ardern confirms the country’s “gun laws will change”.
Confirming that the suspect had a licence to have a firearm when the attacks took place in Christchurch, New Zealand’s prime minister Jacinda Ardern confirms the country’s “gun laws will change”.
Ardern says the suspect used five guns, including semi-automatic rifles and shotguns and was in possession of a gun licence.
Ardern says the suspect used five guns, including semi-automatic rifles and shotguns and was in possession of a gun licence.
Ardern adds that none of the people arrested had a criminal past, nor was any on a watchlist in New Zealand or Australia. The person charged was not known to authorities in connection with far-right violence. She says:
Ardern adds that none of the people arrested had a criminal past, nor was any on a watchlist in New Zealand or Australia. The person charged was not known to authorities in connection with far-right violence. She says:
Today, as the country grieves, we are seeking answers.
Today, as the country grieves, we are seeking answers.
Ardern says three people have been arrested and confirms that an Australian will appear in court today charged with murder. The person was not a Christchurch resident, but was based in Dunedin – in line with earlier reports.
Ardern says three people have been arrested and confirms that an Australian will appear in court today charged with murder. The person was not a Christchurch resident, but was based in Dunedin – in line with earlier reports.
Enquiries are ongoing about whether or not the other two were involved.
Enquiries are ongoing about whether or not the other two were involved.
The fourth person was a member of the public in possession of a firearm but was trying to help police and has been released.
The fourth person was a member of the public in possession of a firearm but was trying to help police and has been released.
Jacinda Ardern is speaking now.
Jacinda Ardern is speaking now.
She confirms that 49 people have been killed and says authorities are working to identify them. The injured people have been identified and she says the child transferred to Starship hospital is five-years-old, not four.
She confirms that 49 people have been killed and says authorities are working to identify them. The injured people have been identified and she says the child transferred to Starship hospital is five-years-old, not four.
The Duke and Duchess of Cambridge and the Duke and Duchess of Sussex have released a statement in response to the attack in New Zealand:
Our hearts go out to the families and friends of the people who lost their lives in the devastating attack in Christchurch.
We have all been fortunate to spend time in Christchurch and have felt the warm, open-hearted and generous spirit that is core to its remarkable people. No person should ever have to fear attending a sacred place of worship.
This senseless attack is an affront to the people of Christchurch and New Zealand, and the broader Muslim community.
It is a horrifying assault on a way of life that embodies decency, community, and friendship.
We know that from this devastation and deep mourning, the people of New Zealand will unite to show that such evil can never defeat compassion and tolerance.
We send our thoughts and prayers to everyone in New Zealand today.
Kia Kaha
And the Prince of Wales has sent the following message to the governor-general of New Zealand:
Both my wife and I were utterly horrified to hear of the most barbaric attacks on two mosques in Christchurch, which resulted in the cruel and tragic loss of so many people’s lives. It is beyond all belief that so many should have been killed and injured at their place of worship and our most special and heartfelt sympathy goes out to all the families and loved ones of those who have lost their lives.
This appalling atrocity is an assault on all of us who cherish religious freedom, tolerance, compassion and community. I know that the people of New Zealand will never allow hate and division to triumph over these things they hold dear.
Our thoughts and prayers are with the victims’ families, the first responders, the people of Christchurch and all New Zealanders at this most heartbreaking of times.
Here’s the full text of the UN Security Council’s statement:
The members of the Security Council condemned in the strongest terms the heinous and cowardly terrorist attack that took place at Al Noor Mosque and Linwood Mosque in Christchurch, New Zealand, on 15 March 2019, which resulted in at least 49 killed and many wounded.
The members of the Security Council expressed their deepest sympathy and condolences to the families of the victims and to the government of New Zealand and they wished a speedy and full recovery to those who were injured.
The members of the Security Council reaffirmed that terrorism in all its forms and manifestations constitutes one of the most serious threats to international peace and security.
The members of the Security Council underlined the need to hold perpetrators, organisers, financiers and sponsors of these reprehensible acts of terrorism accountable and bring them to justice, and urged all States, in accordance with their obligations under international law and relevant Security Council resolutions, to cooperate actively with the government of the New Zealand and all other relevant authorities in this regard.
The members of the Security Council reiterated that any acts of terrorism are criminal and unjustifiable, regardless of their motivation, wherever, whenever and by whomsoever committed. They reaffirmed the need for all States to combat by all means, in accordance with the charter of the United Nations and other obligations under international law, including international human rights law, international refugee law and international humanitarian law, threats to international peace and security caused by terrorist acts.
Further to that, the office of the UN secretary general, António Guterres, has released this statement:
The secretary general is shocked and appalled at the terrorist attack at two mosques in Christchurch, New Zealand. He extends his deepest condolences to the families of the victims and to the government and people of New Zealand.
The secretary general recalls the sanctity of mosques and all places of worship. He calls upon all people on this holy day for Muslims to show signs of solidarity with the bereaved Islamic community.
The secretary general reiterates the urgency of working better together globally to counter Islamophobia and eliminate intolerance and violent extremism in all its forms.
In London, hundreds of mourners stood in a silence in honour of those who were killed in the New Zealand shootings.
Flowers and candles were laid as night fell on the peaceful gathering at the New Zealand memorial in central London’s Hyde Park.
The vigil’s organiser, Zaharan Sofi, said she spent Friday – her 30th birthday – feeling “very emotional”. Sofi, a corporate accountant of Brixton, in south London, said:
I am a British Muslim and I wanted to make sure that people come together. It is a very important time to bring people together and not to try and divide.
Bringing people together is how you deal with terrorism. In this sensitive time and in our society, it is important that we all know we are human beings first.
The event was aimed at showing solidarity and to provide comfort after the horror of the Christchurch shootings, in which 49 people have died, at two New Zealand mosques.
A minute’s-silence and traditional Moari music were part of the moments of reflection. Hundreds of people, of nationalities including British-based New Zealanders, attended and stood in respectful silence.
A Muslim man named Omar Nabi has appeared at the court and been swarmed by media. He is emotional and says he lost his 71-year-old father, Douad, in the shooting. He wants to take his father back to Afghanistan for burial.
We are not terrorists mate, we are here to help everyone make it to paradise. This is New Zealand and multicultural. It is so calm and relaxed. We are not like this. None of us are like this.
Omar Nabi is an Afghan refugee, whose family fled to New Zealand searching for peace.
We were told this country was paradise ... the feelings I have right now are outrageous.
His father had lived in Christchurch for 45 years. He was a refugee advocate and supported other new arrivals to the city over the decade. Omar said:
49 people got killed, shot in the back while praying. Entering a place of prayer to shoot them is cowardly. Cowardly ... life is a test.
About two dozen members of local and international media outlets are waiting outside the Christchurch district court house in the central city, which is under guard by armed police.
The accused is expected to face multiple murder charges in the court this morning. Besides the activity at the court house, the city is sombre and largely empty of people and activity, with most Cantabrians heeding police advice to stay out of the centre and remain vigilant for their own safety and that of others.
A little more on that UN Security Council statement, which was proposed by Kuwait and Indonesia. It reads:
The members of the Security Council reaffirmed that terrorism in all its forms and manifestations constitutes one of the most serious threats to international peace and security.
The council stood to observe a moment’s silence for the victims on Friday.
The UN Security Council has condemned the “heinous, cowardly” attack in New Zealand, saying that any acts of terrorism are criminal and unjustifiable, according to the Reuters new agency.
The New Zealand police have just released this update, in which they say one of the two people in a critical condition is a four-year-old child:
A message from Commissioner Mike Bush:We are continuing to make enquiries after yesterday's tragic events in Christchurch. As the Prime Minister stated yesterday, this has been designated a terrorist attack. 49 people have died and 42 are being treated for injuries.
Two of those injured are critical and this includes a four-year-old child who is being transported to Starship Hospital this morning. 41 people were killed at the Deans Avenue mosque, and seven at the Linwood Avenue mosque. One has since died in hospital.
Our thoughts go out to those who have been affected by this unprecedented event. A 28-year-old man will appear in Christchurch District Court today charged with murder. Two others remain in custody.
Our investigations are in their early stages and we will be looking closely to build a picture of any of the individuals involved and all of their activities prior to this horrific event.
There is no guarantee the risk is limited to Canterbury and we need all New Zealanders to be extra vigilant. Our message to you is simple: if you see something suspicious, say something – call 111 immediately.
Police is aware there are distressing materials related to this event circulating widely online. We would urge anyone who has been affected by seeing these materials to seek appropriate support.
We would also like to remind the public that it is an offence to distribute an objectionable publication and that is punishable by imprisonment. Once again I want to reassure the public that a large Police presence remains in the city for the time being.
There will be a heightened Police presence at community events today for safety and reassurance. Dozens of officers continue to be deployed into the region today, and Police’s Eagle helicopter has flown to Christchurch to assist those on the ground.
Police and the wider government will be working with leaders and members of the Islamic Community to provide assistance, reassurance and support.
Deputy Commissioner of Māori and Ethnic Services Wally Haumaha has travelled to Christchurch alongside 15 ethnic liaison officers to support the community.
These specialists will work alongside local staff to support the families and help repatriate them with their loved ones in a way that is consistent with Muslim beliefs, while taking into account these circumstances and obligations to the coroner.
I also plan to fly to Christchurch this morning, and will be speaking to media at the earliest opportunity. More detail on that will be advised in due course. Again I want to offer my sincere condolences to those affected, on behalf of New Zealand Police.
Within the last hour, the Guardian has published its editorial on the attack in Christchurch, saying the “threat of violence from far-right extremists has been ignored for too long”.
Politicians have created the swamp for such reptiles. White supremacists in America clearly believe that they have a fellow traveller in the White House. If they are mistaken then Donald Trump has hardly done much to disabuse them of this idea. Others have taken a cue from his overt race-baiting, unable even to resist the urge to whip up Islamophobia in the aftermath of the latest killings. Mr Trump could fill a bath with crocodile tears he has wept. In the US white supremacists and their ilk have killed far more people since 11 September 2001, than any other category of domestic extremist. The threat of violence from far-right extremists has been ignored for too long. In Britain the menace is recognised as so serious the security services have taken charge of it. During the Brexit referendum, a campaign swimming in reaction, a Labour MP was shot and stabbed by a neo-Nazi shouting “Britain first”. New Zealand’s prime minister, Jacinda Ardern, has understood the threat the mosque attacks pose to her country’s society, imperilling the values New Zealanders cherish most – their solidarity, their sense of community and their feeling of safety. Many of the victims, she said, may be migrants or refugees and “they are us. The person who has perpetuated this violence against us is not”. Terrorists seek to divide. In grief and anger, communities must stand together.
The Guardian view on the Christchurch attacks: extremism’s rising danger | Editorial
Cordons remain in place around much of central Christchurch, including a wide perimeter and police presence around the two affected mosques, inside which it is believed many bodies remain.
A police update this morning has warned residents the risk to Christchurch remains high and told people people to remain vigilant and report any suspicious behaviour.
Sports grounds and usually busy coffee shops and brunch restaurants are closed this morning in the central city and there are few people on the streets as dawn breaks.
In Dunedin, almost two hundred miles southwest of Christhurch, police are moving in on a property that is linked to the Christchurch shooter and the bomb squad are en route, with the armed offenders squad also attending. Local reporters on the scene say they understand the address may be the residence of the shooter.
