Here’s How Canada is Responding to the New Zealand Terrorist Attack

Published March 15, 2019 at 2:43 pm

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Canada has responded to the recent alleged anti-Muslim terrorist attack that took place in New Zealand.

According to Canterbury police, 49 people have been killed and another 48 were injured following shootings that occurred at two New Zealand mosques during Friday prayers.  Police say 41 people were killed at the Deans Avenue mosque, and seven at the Linwood Avenue mosque

Police say a 28-year-old man has been charged with murder and is due to appear in the Christchurch District Court tomorrow morning.

Two others remain in custody. Another person was arrested earlier today, but police say the arrest is not related to these events.

Police say the investigation is ongoing. 

Canada has responded to what is now being described as a terrorist attack.

Ralph Goodale, Minister of Public Safety and Emergency Preparedness, took to Twitter and commented on the impact this attack has had on Canada’s threat level. 

 According to the government of Canada website, Canada’s threat level has remained the same since October of 2014.

“Canada stands with Muslim communities here at home, in New Zealand, and across the world,” Goodale wrote in another Twitter post. “Hatred, violence and right-wing extremism have no place in any society.”

Peel Regional Police Interim Chief Chris McCord said police have been in contact with members of the Muslim community in Brampton and Mississauga in the wake of the attack. 

“As a result of the tragic incidents in New Zealand last night, this is a sad day for the Muslim population and all residents of New Zealand. This impacts the entire global community and we all grieve together. These acts of violence not only have an effect on those directly involved, but have a long-lasting impact on communities.  I have been in contact with members of my Muslim Advisory Committee and the Muslim Council of Peel and I want to reassure our Muslim community that our number one priority is to keep our community safe,” McCord said in a statement.  

“Our Equity and Inclusion Bureau and Community Mobilization Teams will be connecting with the various leaders at our local mosques and other places of worship, to check on their well-being and work to resolve any concerns they may have.  Additionally, uniform officers and specialty units will be increasing their patrols and presence at places of worship within our region.”

McCord asks that members of the community remain attentive and vigilant and report anything they feel is suspicious or out of the ordinary.

Toronto police and Durham police have also said they’re keeping in close contact with members of the Muslim community in the wake of the attack. GTA mayors, including Mississauga Mayor Bonnie Crombie, Brampton Mayor Patrick Brown and Burlington Mayor Marianne Meed-Ward, have also shared their condolences.

Graphic is courtesy of the government of Canada website.

Cover photo is courtesy of Ahmed Ali (@MrAhmednurAli) on Twitter.

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