Six Killed in Canada Mosque ‘Terrorist Attack’

Photograph: Mathieu Belanger/Reuters

At least six people have been killed and eight others injured after an unidentified individual opened fire inside a mosque in Quebec, Canada.

The shooting, described as a terrorist attack by the Canadian government, took place at the Quebec Islamic Cultural Centre on Sunday night. At least 50 people had gathered inside the mosque for evening prayers before shots were fired.

According to Canadian authorities, two suspects have been arrested. One of the suspects was reportedly arrested at the scene of the shooting and another was arrested within a perimeter set up by Canadian security authorities.

In a statement, Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau condemned the incident as a “terrorist attack”.

“It was with tremendous shock, sadness and anger that I heard of this evening’s tragic and fatal shooting at the Centre culturel islamique de Québec located in the Ste-Foy neighbourhood of the city of Québec,” said Trudeau in a statement.

“We condemn this terrorist attack on Muslims in a centre of worship and refuge.

“While authorities are still investigating and details continue to be confirmed, it is heart-wrenching to see such senseless violence. Diversity is our strength, and religious tolerance is a value that we, as Canadians, hold dear.

“Muslim-Canadians are an important part of our national fabric, and these senseless acts have no place in our communities, cities and country. Canadian law enforcement agencies will protect the rights of all Canadians, and will make every effort to apprehend the perpetrators of this act and all acts of intolerance.

According to Canadian authorities, the victims, who have not been officially named, are aged between 35 and 70.