Tarrant, 28, arrested by the police

Christchurch Mosque Attacker Charged with Terrorism

WELLINGTON – Brenton Tarrant, a 28-year-old Australian, who shot Muslim worshippers in the Christchurch mosque was charged with terrorism on Tuesday, May 21. Not only the terror charge, but Tarrant also faces 51 charges of murder and 40 of attempted murder.

Back in March 15, 2019, Tarrant attacked the Christchurch mosque by shooting while recording his action live on Facebook. The attack itself killed 51 Muslims. Jacinda Ardern, New Zealand Prime Minister, labeled the attack as a well-planned terrorist attack, on the same day the mosque was attacked. 

The charge was made after consultations with prosecutors and government legal experts. However, the charges were less expansive. It is due to New Zealand’s Terrorism Suppression Act was only introduced in 2002 and has not been tested.

Tarrant is currently in high security prison while going on tests to know if he is mentally fits to stand trial. Tarrant’s next court will be held on June 14, 2019.

The police have met the survivors as well as the victims’ families on Tuesday. During the meeting, the police explained about the additional charges for Tarrant. They also stated that they are committed to provide the support necessary because the court will be challenging and emotional for the victims’ families and survivors of the attack.