New Zealand mosques attacks: Several feared dead after shooting in Christchurch

People in central Christchurch have been directed by the police to stay indoors.

As per Stuff report, gunmen have opened fire on two Christchurch mosques, on Deans Ave near Hagley Park, and in Linwood.

Sources told Stuff nine people are dead.

The road to the mosques have been cordoned off.

Stuff understands the emergency department at Christchurch Hospital had been cleared out. Hospital staff were expecting about 40 to 50 injured people.

The gunmen are still at large and the police are trying to locate him, reports said.

New Zealand Police tweeted: "A serious and evolving situation is occurring in Christchurch with an active shooter.Police are responding with its full capability to manage the situation, but the risk environment remains extremely high.Police recommend that residents across Christchurch remain off...off the streets and indoors until further notice. Christchurch schools will be locked down until further notice.Police thanks the public for their cooperation and will provide further updates to keep residents informed."

Police said one person has been taken to custody but there may be other 'offenders' connected to the incident.

Commissioner Mike Bush was quoted as saying by The Guardian that it was a “very serious and grave situation” and warned people not to leave their homes. 

Meanwhile, BBC reported that unverified footage purportedly taken by the shooter has emerged, suggesting he filmed as he shot victims.

Witnesses at the Al Noor mosque, located in central Christchurch along Dean Avenue, facing Hagley Park, reported seeing people bleeding on the ground outside the building, but this has not been confirmed by police or officials, reported BBC.

Bangladeshi cricketers escape attack:

Bangladeshi cricketers, who are currently visiting the country to play against the home side, escaped the attack. 

Cricketer Tamim Iqbal said the entire team got saved.

"Entire team got saved from active shooters!!! Frightening experience and please keep us in your prayers #christchurchMosqueAttack," Tamim tweeted.

His teammate Mushfiqur Rahim said: "Alhamdulillah Allah save us today while shooting in Christchurch in the mosque...we r extremely lucky...never want to see this things happen again....pray for us."

Meanwhile, the  Australian High Commission in New Zealand posted: "Any Australian citizens who require consular assistance, or families concerned about the welfare of citizens should contact +6444736411 or +61262613305."