Sunday, July 10, 2005
Islamic centres attacked in New Zealand
Agence France-Presse
Auckland, July 10, 2005
At least four Islamic centres in New Zealand have been vandalised following the deadly bombings in London claimed by Muslim militant groups, police said on Sunday.
Windows were smashed at the New Zealand Muslim Association mosque in Auckland last night as well as two other mosques and the Al Faroq Cultural Centre in Auckland's south.
No offenders or suspects were seen, Inspector Scott Webb of the Auckland police said, although a vehicle was heard driving away from the cultural centre.
Prime Minister Helen Clark was quick to condemn the attacks.
"New Zealanders across all communities are horrified by the terrorist attacks in London which are the work of evil people," Clark said.
"But it is wrong to target the Muslim community here in retaliation. New Zealand's Muslim community like all New Zealand's communities is overwhelmingly a law-abiding and peaceful community," she said.
"Times like these call for cool heads and for tolerance. The evil acts of some should not lead to scape-goating of minorities in our communities."
Thursday's attacks on London public transport left at least 50 dead and left about 700 injured.
One New Zealand woman has been unaccounted for in London since the blasts on Thursday.
© HT Media Ltd. 2005.