Venkat Raman
Auckland, September 4, 2021
Aotearoa New Zealand Federation of Tamil Sangams
Wellington-based Aotearoa New Zealand Federation of Tamil Sangams (ANTS) President Ravindran Annamalai said that his Organisation condemns “in the strongest terms” the cowardly terrorist attack by a single person, that occurred at the Lynn Mall in New Lynn, Auckland on September 3, causing serious injuries and distress to our community. The terrorist can now be named as Ahamed Aathil Mohamed Samsudeen (of Sri Lankan origin).
“We express our deep sympathy to the victims of this heinous act and their families and the people of Auckland. We send our thoughts and Aroha to the victims and their whanau as they deal with this shocking terror attack,” he said.
Mr Annamalai said that terrorism in all its forms is one of the most serious threats to peace and security and that any acts of terrorism are criminal and unjustifiable, regardless of their motivation.
“We acknowledge the courageous action of New Zealand Police who continue to keep us safe during this trying time,” he said.
Islamic Women’s Council of New Zealand
Islamic Women’s Council of New Zealand (IWCNZ) spokesperson Anjum Rahman said that the community is shocked and saddened by the attack at the New Lynn Mall.
“Our thoughts are first and foremost with the victims of this tragedy, we pray for their full recovery. We know this tragedy has wide and lasting impacts, on the families of the wounded and those present. We stand in solidarity with victims of violence,” she said.
Ms Rahman said that the people of New Zealand came together in an exemplary way after the attacks on Christchurch Mosques (on March 15, 2019).
“Our response was a considered a model globally. We are confident that New Zealanders will come together again to respond to hate, in whatever form it takes. Stereotyping or targeting particular communities causes harm. We know that many will be feeling unsafe right now. We ask that neighbours check on each other, and where able, assist those who are more vulnerable by offering to do grocery shopping or errands on their behalf over the next few days,” she said.
“We thank the leadership of this country for their strong response to the incident, and also first responders and those on the scene. We expect that all leaders will act to secure the safety of all New Zealanders,” Ms Rahman said.
