‘We express our firm rejection of these terror acts and our deep solidarity with New Zealand people and those affected by this unfortunate tragedy,’ Mr. Plasencia live-tweeted.

Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern attributed the terror attack to a ‘violent extremist, supporter by the Islamic State group,’ she said.

According to Arden, the extremists -identified as a Sri Lankan citizen- who had been in New Zealand for 10 years, was known by local authorities and remained under constant surveillance. mh/pll/wup