Hillingdon community leaders offer prayers for victims of New Zealand atrocity
Reactions have been pouring in from people across the community after two mosques in the New Zealand City of Christchurch were the target of a terrorist attack.
Mayor of London, Sadiq Khan said:
“In response to the horrific attack in New Zealand, I am in constant contact with the Met police who are stepping up reassurance patrols around mosques & increasing engagement with communities of all faiths.”
MP for Uxbridge and South Ruislip, Boris Johnson, said:
“All our thoughts and prayers are today with the people of New Zealand. We already know in our hearts what this was: a sickening and cowardly terrorist attack that was driven by nothing but hatred. We will always stand together against those who are intent on terror and hate.”
Multi-faith coordinator at Brunel University’s chaplaincy, Rev Sally Hitchiner said:
“Standing in solidarity with those who faced the horrific terrorist attack while worshiping in New Zealand – anyone who would value space to light a candle, say a prayer or to talk to Chaplin, the Brunel Uni Meeting House is open 9:30-5pm today.”
Councillor Ali Milani (Heathrow Villages, Lab) said:
“Devastated to hear the tragic news of the attack on the Muslim community in New Zealand. Praying for all the victims, their families and the Muslim community all across the world.”
“When Muslims spoke, you didn’t listen. When we said fanning the flames of vitriolic Islamophobia would see attacks like today, few listened. Now we have to mourn this pain. May Allah grant strength to the community in #Christchurch”
Councillor Janet Gardner (Botwell, Lab) said:
“How can people be full of such hate… it makes me so sad at the ignorance and intolerance of others.”
So far it has been estimated that 49 people have died from the attacks at the Al-Noor mosque and Linwood Mosque. The Gunman has since been identified as a 28-year-old Australian called Brenton Tarrant who live-streamed his rampage to Facebook from a head-mounted camera.A further two people have been detained after firearms and explosive devices were recovered nearby while officers determine who exactly were involved.