New Zealand Shooting: Security Increased At New York, Los Angeles Mosques

Security was tightened at mosques in New York and Los Angeles following the mass shooting at mosques in Christchurch, New Zealand, on late Thursday (Friday in New Zealand) that killed over 40 people. It was alleged that one of the shooters deliberately targeted Muslims in the mosques.

The New York Police Department released a statement saying it was "closely monitoring events in New Zealand, and out of an abundance of caution is assessing security at locations around the city," CBS News reported.

The Los Angeles Police Department too issued a statement saying it was providing extra patrols around local mosques.

"The LAPD is monitoring the horrific events unfolding in Christchurch, New Zealand. While this attack appears to be an isolated incident with no nexus to LA, out of an abundance of caution we're providing extra patrols around mosques. Our thoughts & prayers are with all affected," the department tweeted.

At least four people were taken into custody in connection with the shooting and one of them, said to be in his 20’s, was charged with murder.

A 73-page manifesto, reportedly uploaded by one of the gunmen before the attack, which was removed from the Internet post the incident, was filled with anti-Muslim ideas and also had a reference to President Donald Trump. The gunman called Trump a “symbol of renewed white identity” but not a “policy maker.”

Another American who was mentioned in the manifesto was political activist Candace Owens who was referred to as the gunman’s primary inspiration behind the attack.