"UPDATE 12 - Christchurch terror attack"

Please attribute to Police Commissioner Mike Bush

Police have a number of key priorities as we continue to work in response to the Christchurch terror attacks.

Our priority is public safety, not just in Christchurch but nationally.

We have deployed staff right across the country.

Our other key priority is making sure that those people so horribly affected by these events get the support and welfare that they need.

Our investigation will focus on what unfolded and how it unfolded, and to answer the many questions people will have.

We also want to ensure that all our staff and responders get every support possible.

I want to acknowledge the leaders from all of the agencies involved, including Canterbury District Commander Superintendent John Price who has led the local response.

I also want to acknowledge St John, Fire and Emergency New Zealand, Civil Defence, NZDF, Victim Support, Christchurch City Council and the other agencies working so closely together.

One offender, a 28-year-old male, has been charged with one count of murder.

He has been remanded to the High Court to reappear on 5 April.

Any further charges he will face will be determined by the ongoing investigation.

There are many, many victims of this tragic event and we are giving every possible support to them.

I also want to thank all of the religious leaders and Imams who have travelled here to give their support to those who have been affected.

ENDS

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