New Zealand shooting: mosque massacre suspect appears in court

In New Zealand, the main accused in mosque shooting that killed 49 people in Christchurch appeared in court on murder charge.

Twenty-eight-year-old Brenton Tarrant, who filmed himself rampaging through two mosques did not request bail and was taken into custody until his next court appearance scheduled for April 5. The suspect documented his radicalisation and two years of preparations in a lengthy and conspiracy filled far-right manifesto.

New Zealand Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern described the



killing as a terrorist attack and vowed to change the gun laws in the country. She said that the shooter did not have a criminal record. He had legally purchased the two semi-automatic weapons, two shotguns and lever-action gun he used, she added.

The attack has shocked New Zealanders, who take pride on living in a secure and welcoming place. Police have warned Muslims across the country not to visit mosques anywhere in New Zealand in the wake of the Christchurch attacks.