New Zealand mass shooting suspect charged with murder

New Zealand mass shooting suspect charged with murder

CHRISTCHURCH, March 15, 2019 (Xinhua) -- Police are seen on a road in Christchurch, New Zealand, March 15, 2019. At least 40 people were killed in mass shootings in two mosques of New Zealand

Christchurch, March 16 (IANS) A 28-year-old man from Australia appeared in a local court here on Saturday and was charged with murder in connection with the mass shootings at two mosques in the New Zealand city.

The suspect identified as Brenton Harrison Tarrant, appeared before district court judge Paul Kellar here on Saturday morning and was charged with one count of murder, The Guardian reported.

"There is one charge of murder brought at the moment, it is reasonable to assume that there will be others," the judge was quoted as saying by The Guardian.

Tarrant has been remanded in custody and is scheduled to appear in court on April 5.

Meanwhile, New Zealand Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern reiterated to the public on Saturday morning that New Zealand's gun law would be changed in the wake of the terror attacks, Xinhua reported.

"Our gun law will be changed," said Ardern.

Major public events during the weekend have all been cancelled across New Zealand as the authorities tightened up security.

At least 49 people were killed and 48 others, including an Indian, injured when at least two gunmen, said to be right-wing extremists, opened indiscriminate fire during Friday prayers at two mosques here on Friday.

--IANS

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