More than 40 people were reportedly killed in shootings at two mosques in Christchurch, New Zealand, around Friday prayers.

A gunman, who live-streamed himself opening fire at the Al Noor mosque in Christchurch has killed at least 40 people and injured many more. The gunman, who identified himself on Twitter is said to have posted a 73-page manifesto online explaining his reasons for the attack.

Witnesses claim the Al Noor Mosque was targeted by armed assailants and there were up to 200 people inside for Friday Prayers. Among the dead are at least one child and several female worshippers.

The country’s police commissioner, Mike Bush, said three men and a woman were arrested following the shooting. The shooter has been confirmed as an Australian-born citizen.

New Zealand Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern said: “there is no place in New Zealand for such acts of extreme and unprecedented violence, which it is clear this act was. It is clear this is one of New Zealand’s darkest days.”

Another shooting is reported to have taken place at Linwood Mosque, however, the details surrounding the attack remain unclear.

Arden labelled the massacre as a terrorist attack.

ANNISA ESSACK

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