By Radio New Zealand
The Muslim community in Fiji says it is working with authorities to assess the status of any Fijians who may have been victims in the Christchurch mosque attacks yesterday.
Brenton Tarrant, 28, appeared in court this morning after the shooting attacks at two mosques in the New Zealand city left 49 people dead.
Fiji Muslim League’s National President Hafizud Khan asked people to stop spreading reports that Fijians may have been victims in the shootings.
He said they were liaising with authorities and the families of any Fijian Muslims who may have been in either of the mosques during the attacks to find out more information.
“We urge people to refrain from spreading invalidated reports of Fijians affected, either via social media or other sources, as it only adds to stress and suffering experienced by family members and loved ones.”
Hafizud Khan has also called upon all its members to hold special prayers at all mosques and centres for the victims.
“We request all Fijians to join us in praying for all the families and friends, in our peaceful and beautiful neighbouring Islands of New Zealand, who have suffered through this senseless act of terrorism.”
He also praised New Zealand prime minister Jacinda Ardern for reassuring New Zealanders from all backgrounds and religions that they are valued.
The Fiji Women’s Crisis Centre also announce it will hold a candlelight vigil tonight at their office and there are three mosques confirmed in each of the three divisions who are holding prayers that are open to public.
This article is republished under Kaniva’s content partnership with Radio New Zealand.
