No news, no visitors: Accused Christchurch gunman isolated in prison


The Australian man accused of killing 50 people in an attack on two mosques in Christchurch has been transferred from the city to a maximum security prison cell, and has no access to news or visitors.

Brenton Harrison Tarrant, 28, is now believed to be being held at Paremoremo, the maximum security section of Auckland Prison.

Brenton Tarrant, charged with murder in relation to the mosque attacks, has been moved to the maximum security section of Auckland Prison. Source: Reuters
Brenton Tarrant, charged with murder in relation to the mosque attacks, has been moved to the maximum security section of Auckland Prison. Source: Reuters

“We worked closely with other agencies to securely transfer this prisoner into Corrections custody following his appearance in court in Christchurch,” a Corrections spokeswoman confirmed on Sunday.

Tarrant had been held at the Justice and Emergency Services Precinct in Christchurch, a compound encompassing the police station and courts.

The New Zealand Herald reported that Tarrant had been flown to Auckland by the NZ Defence Force.

A huge crowd gathers for a vigil in Hagley Park following mass shooting in Christchurch. Source: AP Photo/Mark Baker
A huge crowd gathers for a vigil in Hagley Park following mass shooting in Christchurch. Source: AP Photo/Mark Baker

Conditions are strict for the man accused of gunning down 50 people at Masjid al Noor and Linwood Masjid during Friday prayers a week ago.

He is charged with one count of murder, though more charges are expected to be laid when he returns to court.

“The individual is segregated from other prisoners and able to be observed 24 hours a day, either directly by staff and/or via CCTV camera,” the spokeswoman said.

Flowers are laid for the victims of the Christchurch mosque massacre. Source: AAP
Flowers are laid for the victims of the Christchurch mosque massacre. Source: AAP

“At this time he has no access to television, radio or newspapers and no approved visitors.”

It’s not clear where Tarrant’s next court appearance, scheduled for April 5, will be held.

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 Yahoo7’s daily newsletter. Sign up here.