Chicago Muslim Groups Urge Vigilance After New Zealand Attacks

CHICAGO — Muslim organizations in Chicago are on alert following deadly terrorist attacks targeting the places of worship in New Zealand. The local groups are urging the Muslim community to be vigilant and for local mosques to increase security, particularly during Friday prayers.

"The horrific active shooter scenario at a mosque is something we all pray never happens, there is no active intelligence that there is any immediate threat in the U.S.," CAIR-Chicago said in a notice to community members. "But we cannot be complacent."

The organization is urging mosques and worshippers to call local police stations and request increased patrols, be on the lookout for suspicious behavior and encourage volunteers to greet people outside the mosques.

At least 49 people were killed and dozens more were wounded during terrorist attacks at two mosques in the New Zealand city of Christchurch. Four people were arrested in connection with the shootings, according to reports.

The Chicago Police Department has directed officers to pay special attention to mosques.

The Council of Islamic Organizations of Greater Chicago also urged the community to be vigilant during prayer services, and to pray for peace.

"As a world community, all people of faith must renounce any ideology that seeks to justify the murder of any group of people based solely upon their faith," The organization said in a statement. "Fearmongering must be challenged, and civility must dominate our social interactions."

The organizations are urging politicians to fight against hate speech.