Mosque shooting: The massacre a product of Islamophobia and marginalisation of Muslims

MELBOURNE: The multiple deaths at the Al Noor and Linwood mosques in Christchurch are the horrific consequence of hate and marginalisation of Muslims, says Rateb Jneid, president of Muslims Australia – the Australian Federation of Islamic Councils.

One attacker, as per Australian PM Scott Morrison confirmation is a 28-year-old Australian man.

He called the massacre a product of the ever-increasing Islamophobia and marginalisation of Muslims.

“The massacre today is a product of the ever-increasing Islamaphobia and marginalisation of Muslims,” Dr Rateb was quoted as saying to BBC.

He said the atrocity was a reminder to all , including politicians and media commentators, “of the horrific consequences that an atmosphere of hate and division can lead to”.

“This act of terror on innocent worshippers is an atrocity and we grieve with the victims and their families,” Dr Jneid said in a statement on Friday.

Dr Jneid urged all governments to give extra attention to the rise of anti-Muslim sentiment and extremism and also encouraged all mosques and places of worship and Muslims in Australia to be extra vigilant in the coming days.

According to government data, Muslims make up around 1.1% of New Zealand’s population.

Several people were reported dead when a gunman opened fire at a crowded mosque in the New Zealand city of Christchurch, during afternoon prayers Friday.

Local media reported up six people were dead and the South Island city was placed in lockdown as police hunted for an “active shooter.”

With agency inputs