Several dead in Christchurch mosque shooting, close shave for Bangladesh cricket team

Christchurch: Multiple people were killed and several injured Friday when a gunman opened fire at a crowded mosque during afternoon prayers in the city of Christchurch, New Zealand media reported.

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

“A serious and evolving situation is occurring in Christchurch with an active shooter,” police said in a statement.

“Police are responding with its full capability to manage the situation, but the risk environment remains extremely high.”

The Masjid al Noor was filled with worshippers, including members of the Bangladesh cricket team, who had disembarked from a team bus and were about to enter the mosque when the attack took place.

Bangladesh Cricket Board spokesman Jalal Yunus said most of the team were bussed to the mosque and were about to go inside when the incident happened.

“They are safe. But they are mentally shocked. We have asked the team to stay confined in the hotel,” he told AFP.

Player Tamim Iqbal tweeted that it was a “frightening experience” and that there were “active shooters”.

“Entire team got saved from active shooters!!!” tweeted Tamim Iqbal. “Frightening experience and please keep us in your prayers.” Local media said there were multiple casualties at one mosque and that another had been evacuated.