Ottawa Police say they will be stepping up patrols around local mosques, following the deadly massacres at two masjids in Christchurch, New Zealand.
49 people were killed in the attacks. One person is facing murder charges.
Canada’s public safety minister, Ralph Goodale, says there is no known nexus to Canada, and the nation’s threat level remains unchanged.
At this time there is no known nexus to Canada and Canada’s threat level remains unchanged at “medium”. 2/2
— Ralph Goodale (@RalphGoodale) March 15, 2019
Political leaders have expressed their condolences and sympathies.
Attacking people during prayers is absolutely appalling, and Canada strongly condemns today’s shootings in New Zealand. Our thoughts and hearts go out to the victims and their families, and we join New Zealanders and Muslim communities around the world in grieving.
— Justin Trudeau (@JustinTrudeau) March 15, 2019
Freedom has come under attack in New Zealand as peaceful worshippers are targeted in a despicable act of evil. All people must be able to practice their faith freely and without fear. 1/2
— Andrew Scheer (@AndrewScheer) March 15, 2019
There are no words strong enough to condemn this kind of vile hatred. I am praying for peace for the families of those lost and recovery for those injured. 2/2
— Andrew Scheer (@AndrewScheer) March 15, 2019
Heartbroken by the devastating news of deadly shootings at two mosques in New Zealand.
— Jagmeet Singh (@theJagmeetSingh) March 15, 2019
My heart goes out to the families of the murdered and all those impacted by this act of terror. Islamophobia kills - and has no place anywhere in the world.
I strongly condemn the horrifying attack on two mosques in Christchurch, New Zealand. I join people across Ontario and Canada and stand with all legislators at Queen’s Park in condemning this hatred and violence towards our Muslim brothers and sisters.
— Doug Ford (@fordnation) March 15, 2019