Local Mosques: 'We Will Stay Vigilant' After New Zealand Attacks

JOHNS CREEK, GA — Local mosques and their communities are in mourning today after a deadly attack on mosques in New Zealand that left 49 people dead and about 50 people injured.

Johns Creek's mosque Masjid Jafar has added extra police officers during its Friday prayers and on an ongoing basis until the comfort level increases, said Chairman Naeem Mulla.

"We have a town hall meeting planned to discuss how to increase the security and protect the mosque," Mulla told Patch. "No events have been canceled, but we will not rule that out if we get some credible information. So, we are taking a 'watch and see' approach."

The Roswell Community Masjid said they will have extra security onsite today, however, that is typical for Fridays, a spokeswoman said.

Shaheen Bharde, public relations director at the Roswell Community Masjid, said every Friday they have a police officer onsite for security and parking for weekly prayer services.

"Today will be the same," Bharde said. "We are hosting a few police officers onsite today, which was previously planned, so this will also provide some extra security for our community today. All events will continue as planned, but we will continue to stay vigilant."

Both groups said they are referring communities to support the grieving families and mosques directly online.

"Please keep everyone in the community at large in prayers does not matter which religion, faith or creed," Mulla said. "You can come join us in prayers. Like they say, if you see something say something. It does not matter where it is happening, at a church, mosque or synagogue. We need to protect each other in these times."

To join Johns Creek's mosque Masjid Jafar for prayers, call 770-846-6727 to schedule a visit.

At least 49 people were killed and dozens more were wounded during terrorist attacks at two mosques in the New Zealand city of Christchurch, CNN reported. Four people were arrested in connection with the shootings, according to New Zealand Police.

Patch Editor Brendan Krisel contributed to this story.