Alleged Christchurch mosque attacker now charged with 50 counts of murder
The Australian man arrested over a terror attack on two mosques in Christchurch has now been charged with 50 counts of murder, New Zealand police say.
Brenton Tarrant, 28, had only been formally charged with a single count of murder following the March 15 attack that killed 50 and injured 50 more.
Police on Thursday confirmed they had now laid 50 counts of murder and 39 of attempted murder.
Despite labelling the shooting an act of terrorism, authorities had not said whether the former NSW resident would be the first person charged under New Zealand’s anti-terror laws ahead of an appearance in the High Court this week.
The country’s terrorism legislation has in the past proved unwieldy and complex, and legal experts have said terror charges may just complicate the prosecution for no material difference in outcome if Tarrant is convicted.
“Other charges are still under consideration,” police said on Thursday.
Fraser Anning says ‘Eggboy’ should have been slapped by mum years ago
Pauline Hanson rejects ‘white supremacist’ jibe in Anning controversy
Police raid homes on NSW north coast in relation to Christchurch attacks
Australian authorities increase security in mosques following NZ terrorist attack
‘Blood everywhere’: Horrified witnesses describe carnage at Christchurch mosques
Tarrant is being held in New Zealand’s only maximum security prison, in Auckland, and has had no access to television, radio, newspapers or visitors.
He’ll appear in court by video link on Friday, but is not required to enter pleas to the charges.
Do you have a story tip? Email: y7newsroom@yahoo7.com.au.
You can also follow us on Facebook and Twitter and stay up to date with the latest news with Yahoo’s daily newsletter. Sign up here.
