40 people killed in New Zealand mosque shooting

A gunman opened fire at two mosques killing 40 people in the Christchurch city of in New Zealand. 

The mosques were packed with worshippers gathered for Friday prayers. 

New Zealand Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern confirmed the toll and termed the shooting as one of the country's darkest days. 

Condemning the attack, she said that there is no place in New Zealand for such acts of extreme and unprecedented violence. 

New Zealand police say they have detained four people in connection with the deadly shootings and have neutralised a number of improvised explosive devices found.

The city has been placed in lockdown as police is hunting for an active shooter. The police said, the risk environment remains extremely high and they are responding with their full capability to



manage the situation. It is unclear how many attackers are involved.

Indian High Commission in New Zealand expressed shock on the shooting in Christchurch. It said, Indian needing assistance can contact the High Commission at 021803899 or 021850033.

Meanwhile, Bangladesh cricket team's tour of New Zealand has been called off in the wake of the attack. 

The players were reportedly approaching the Al Noor mosque in Hagley Park in the bust, when the shooting broke out. The team is currently in their team hotel. 

Bangladesh were scheduled to play New Zealand in the third and final Test of the series, beginning from Saturday. 

The International Cricket Council has shown its full support for the cancellation of the test match.