Worshippers have returned to the Al-Noor mosque in Christchurch for the first time since a mass shooting there in which dozens of people were killed.

The building had closed so police could investigate the attack but on Saturday small groups were allowed to return.

Fifty people were killed in shootings at two mosques on 15 March.

As the Al Noor mosque reopened, some 3,000 people walked through Christchurch on Saturday for a 'march for love' intended to honour victims.

Many walked in silence and some carried placards calling for peace and opposing racism.

"We feel like hate has brought a lot of darkness at times," said Manaia Butler, a 16-year-old student who helped to organise the march. "Love is the strongest cure to light the city out of that darkness," she said.

Aden Diriye, who lost his 3-year-old son in the attack, returned to the Al-Noor mosque on Saturday. "I am very happy," he said after praying. " I was back as soon as we rebuilt, to pray."

Australian Brenton Tarrant, a 28-year-old self-proclaimed white supremacist, has been charged with one murder in connection with the attacks and he is expected to face further charges.

The mosque had been repaired, with bullet holes filled in and walls freshly painted - though the lack of rugs on the floor served as a reminder of what had happened.

Police said the nearby Linwood mosque, which was the second to be attacked, had also reopened.

Source: BBC

BDST: 1348 HRS, MAR 23, 2019
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