Extra Security At Howard County Mosques After New Zealand Attacks

COLUMBIA, MD — Howard County Police are stepping up security at area mosques and Muslim facilities after the New Zealand terrorist attacks. While there is no legitimate threat to the community, local officials say they are adding extra patrols this weekend as a precautionary measure.

"The safety of our residents and visitors in Howard County is our top priority," the police department wrote on Facebook. "Our thoughts and prayers go out to the victims and their families in this terrible tragedy."

At least 49 people were killed in a terrorist attack at two Christchurch, New Zealand, mosques on Friday. The accused gunman opened fire inside Masjid Al Noor and the Linwood Islamic Centre, police say.

Authorities have arrested and charged an Australian national with murder. At least four people are in custody, but only three are believed to be involved in the attack.

SEE ALSO: New Zealand Attack: Increased Security At U.S. Mosques

Officials describe the accused gunman — who partially live streamed the massacre — as an extremist, saying he left behind an anti-immigrant manifesto in which he explained his reasoning.

"What has happened in Christchurch is an extraordinary act of unprecedented violence. It has no place in New Zealand," New Zealand Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern said. "Many of those affected will be members of our migrant communities – New Zealand is their home – they are us."

Ardern said the perpetrator of the violence has no place in New Zealand.

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