New Zealand observes seven years since shootings at Christchurch mosques
51 people killed at Al Noor Mosque, Linwood Islamic Centre in country’s deadliest-ever mass shooting
A member of the public places flowers infront of Masjid An-Nur mosque prior to Temel Atacocugu, a survivor of twin mosque attacks, in Christchurch, New Zealand on March 15, 2022.
ISTANBUL
Remembrances took place in Christchurch to observe and honor the victims of two terror attacks on mosques that killed scores of worshipers seven years ago, media reports said Sunday.
Fifty-one victims were killed and 40 injured at the Al Noor Mosque and Linwood Islamic Centre on March 15, 2019. in New Zealand's deadliest-ever mass shooting.
The day began with "the Walk the Talk for Unity" at the Bridge of Remembrance in the city center, organized by the Sakinah Community Trust, a group founded by several widows of the victims, local broadcaster 1News reported.
A memorial service at the Peace Bell in the botanic gardens began with a minute of silence, followed by the reading of the names of the 51 victims. It concluded with a laying of wreaths.
Australian white supremacist Brenton Tarrant carried out the attacks at the Al Noor Mosque and Linwood Islamic Center in Christchurch during Friday prayers.
He was sentenced to life in prison in 2020 without the possibility of parole, in the first such ruling ever handed down in the island country.
Prime Minister Christopher Luxon, while paying tribute to the victims, said Christchurch and New Zealand "showed the world strength, compassion and unity in the face of tragedy" seven years ago.
Luxun vowed to continue to "build a country where everyone can live in peace and safety."
