Maldives has strongly condemned the mosque shootings in New Zealand on Friday, describing it as 'cowardly acts of terrorism'. 

Maldives President Ibrahim Mohamed Solih sent condolences to the loved ones of the victims of the attack, as well as the whole community of New Zealand.

The President condemned the act in the strongest of terms, having stated that terrorism and bigotry have “no place in civilized society”.

While the Maldives Ministry of Foreign Affairs was in contact with the Maldivians living in New Zealand, it followed the incident closely and Foreign Minister Abdulla Shahid confirmed that no Maldivians have been reported dead or injured following the terrorist attack.

The Maldives Foreign Ministry also reiterated the President’s sentiments, having earlier posted via twitter that the Maldives “abhors violence” in all its forms and stands with the people of New Zealand.

Maldives Minister of Defense, Mariya Didi had also taken to twitter following the tragedy, writing that the Maldives reiterates its position of zero tolerance on terrorism.

After a heavily armed gunman opened fire at a mosque in the heart of Christchurch, New Zealand, forty people were reported dead and 20 seriously injured, revealed The Washington Post.

Although the number of casualties and fatalities is yet unspecified, RaajjeMV understands that the gunman, clad in military gear had targeted a second mosque shortly after the first terrorist attack, described by Prime Minister of New Zealand, Jacinda Arden to have brought “the darkest days” to the country.

“We have one suspect in custody, however, there could be others involved” revealed PM Arden.

As the situation unfolds, the police will be revealing more details, said the Prime Minister.

The Washington Post also revealed that authorities clarified that only three are believed to have been involved in the terrorist attack.