Sydney mosque targeted with ‘Christchurch 2.0’ threat
An Islamic mosque in Sydney has been targeted with a horrifying mass shooting threat which said: “I’m about to Christchurch 2.0 this joint.”
The Australian Islamic House — Masjid Al-Bayt Al-Islami at Edmondson Park said the menacing message had been made on the mosque’s Instagram page.
WATCH THE VIDEO ABOVE: Sydney mosque targeted with ‘Christchurch 2.0’ threat.
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By continuing you agree to our Terms and Privacy Policy.It echoes the 2019 massacre carried out by Australian Brenton Tarrant, who murdered 51 worshippers when he stormed two mosques in Christchurch, New Zealand and opened fire. He was sentenced to life in prison.
“We are profoundly concerned by this threat and take it with the utmost seriousness,” president of the Australian Islamic House, Mazhar Hadid, said.
“Our community deserves to feel safe and protected, just like any other citizen of this country.
“We call on the authorities to treat this matter with the highest urgency and to ensure that all places of worship are safeguarded against such acts of hatred and violence.
“We also urge the public to remain vigilant and to stand united against Islamophobia and all forms of bigotry.”
The disturbing comment triggered a police investigation after it was reported to authorities on Tuesday.
“There are no ongoing threats to the community and initial inquiries revealed the source of the threat was interstate,” NSW Police said.
“The NSW Police Force takes hate crimes seriously and encourages anyone who is the victim of a hate crime or witnesses a hate crime to report the matter to police through Crime Stoppers.”
Prime Minister Anthony Albanese said the message was “abhorrent”.
“The authorities have my full support as they investigate this matter. Those responsible must face the full force of the law,” he said.
NSW Premier Chris Minns said the threat was very distressing, particularly as Muslims are participating in prayer during the month of Ramadan.
“Racist threats and Islamophobia will not be tolerated and will be met with the full force of the law,” he said.
Originally published on 7NEWS
