KUALA LUMPUR, March 15 — At least one Malaysian citizen is among those wounded by gunmen who opened fire at two mosques in Christchurch, New Zealand, during the Muslim Friday prayers there today.
The matter was confirmed by the Malaysian High Commission in New Zealand on Twitter.
“As reported, there was a shooting incident in Christchurch mosque at 1.40pm today. The High Comm is in close contact with the local authorities to get further details on the victims.
“So far, one Malaysian is confirmed injured and currently receiving treatment at the hospital,” it said.
New Zealand authorities have also confirmed multiple fatalities in the attacks but have not released exact figures.
The attacks caused global outrage and shock as one of the gunmen “live-streamed” at least 10 minutes of himself gunning down the evidently Muslim targets.
As of 1.45pm, the commission has not named the injured Malaysian or confirmed any further Malaysian victims.
Malaysians seeking information about the welfare of their family and friends in New Zealand may contact the High Commission there via phone at +64210440188 or email to [email protected].
According to press reports, between nine and 27 people are feared dead as a result of the mass shooting in Christchurch and significantly more are thought to have been wounded.
However, there are no verified reports about the exact number of deaths and casualties.
New Zealand Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern has condemned the attacks and described today’s terrorism as one of the “darkest days” in her country’s history.
“Clearly what has happened here is an extraordinary and unprecedented act of violence,” said in a broadcast message.
New Zealand authorities have since reported the arrest of four people in relation to the mosque shootings today.
