SHOW OF SUPPORT
New Zealand’s most feared biker gang guard Christchurch’s mosques so worshippers feel safe while praying days after massacre killed 50
FEARED bikers gangs will be on guard at Muslim prayer this Friday following last week's New Zealand mosque massacre.
The Waikato Mongrel Mob will be outside Jamia Masjid Mosque in Hamilton, to ensure there's no repeat of the bloodshed.
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Fifty victims died in the shootings at two Christchurch mosques after a lone attacker opened fire during Friday prayers.
The main suspect, Australian Brenton Tarrant, has since appeared in court on a single murder charge.
The gunman live-streamed the attack for 17-minutes before posting it on Facebook, along with a 74-page manifesto of hate.
President of the Mongrel Mob's largest chapter Sonny Fatu revealed they now want to show their support for the Muslim community.
He said: “We have Muslims brothers and sisters within our organisation, we have family members who are Muslims.
“We are concerned about their wellbeing.
“But it’s not just about that. It’s also, what’s it all about? Is it about the brown skin? Who knows? We are all vulnerable, that’s the scary part of it all.
BROTHERS IN ARMS
“At times like this we need to come together.”
The Mongrel Mob is planning on standing guard at the Hamilton mosque during their final Friday prayer.
A mixture of Maori and Polynesians, the Mob has 30 chapters throughout NZ and they have long been linked with organised crime.
Its members are known for sporting facial tattoos, wearing red and have a terrifying reputation.
The gang hit the headlines in 1988 when it kidnapped a woman and took her to a gang convention where she was raped by more than 15 men.
Despite bloody rivalries, lifetime Black Power member Dennis O’Reilly says other gangs are also offering their support.
“We’re particularly keen that where people have been divided they be able to come together," he said.
“Also, no-one likes to see women and children shot and maimed, especially in the context of prayer, so all of those things start to come together, people feel empathy, and a desire to protect and support.”
However, Waikato Muslim Association president Dr Asad Mohsin said he did not view the mobs as ";gang members".
He added : "We value them as humans and we appreciate that they value us too."
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First funerals for Christchurch terror attack victims take place as tragic father and son are laid to rest in heartbreaking Islamic ceremony under armed police guard
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