Washington DC: March 15, 2019. (PCP) “I condemn the violent, extremist, right-wing terrorist attack that has stolen the lives of so many innocent New Zealanders as they went about their peaceful practice of worship at their mosques in Christchurch today.” - Australia Prime Minister, Scott Morrison

On March 14th, innocent New Zealanders were going about their peaceful Friday prayers, while a gunmen open fired. The Council of Pakistani American Affairs condemn in the strongest terms the extremist, and horrific terrorist attack that stole the lives of our fellow sisters and brothers. Multiple attacks occurred as shots were fired at Al Noor Mosque and Linwood Mosque in Christchurch, New Zealand.

The Council of Pakistani American Affairs express their deepest sympathy and condolences to the families of the victims, the people of New Zealand and anyone affected by this tragedy. Police Commissioned Mike Bush announced 49 people have been killed, 7 died at Linwood and 41 at Al Noor Mosque, while four suspects have been taken into custody. One of the suspects, live streamed his horrific actions, he has been identified as 28 year old Brenton Tatyana a white supremacist born in Australia.

“This is one of New Zealand’s darkest days…There is no place in New Zealand for such acts of extreme and unprecedented violence.” - New Zealand Prime Minister, Jacinda Arden