NYPD Increases Presence At Mosques Following New Zealand Attacks

NEW YORK, NY — The New York City Police Department increased presence at city mosques Friday following deadly terrorist attacks targeting the places of worship in New Zealand, a department spokesman said.

There is no legitimate threat to New York City mosques, but the NYPD is upping security at a number of locations as a precautionary measure. The department has taken similar action following international terror attacks in the past.

"The NYPD, in conjunction with our law enforcement partners, is closely monitoring events in New Zealand, and out of an abundance of caution is assessing security at locations around the city," an NYPD spokesman said in a statement.

New York Gov. Andrew Cuomo also directed the state police to increase patrols at mosques throughout the state.

"My heart breaks for the victims of the horrific attack in New Zealand. And we grieve with the rest of the world. In the wake of this disgusting act of bigoted violence, which appears to be rooted in Islamophobia, New York stands with the Muslim community as we always have and always will," Cuomo said in a statement.

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 reports.