The Wire

The latest news on the death toll in London confirms that there have been at least 50 deaths. This toll could possibly rise to 80, with the one underground tunnel still to be fully opened up to rescue crews. The devastating events of London have had far reaching consequences, which are being felt all over the world. Over the weekend New Zealand’s Muslim community were shocked to find themselves the victims of reprisals after the terrorist attacks in London. In an action reminiscent of terrorist tactics, six mosques in Auckland were vandalized: windows were smashed and “RIP London” was spray painted on the exterior of the buildings. The similarity of the attacks suggests a carefully coordinated operation probably by the same people. In Wellington, a Newtown Muslim centre had the word “DIE” painted across it and nearly twenty phone messages were left at the office of the Federation of Islamic Associations of New Zealand. These are not isolated incidents – since September 11, there have been reports of approximately 50 attacks on Muslims in New Zealand. In spite of the intimidation, leaders of the Muslim community of New Zealand have been positive about the support they have received from the police, government and wider community. Sarah Greenlees spoke to Sheik Muhammad Amir, the religious advisor for the Federation of Islamic Associations of New Zealand.