Crowds cheered the Mongrel Mob gang for their show of solidarity
Following the devastating terrorist attack on two mosques in New Zealand, one of the country’s most prominent biker gangs showed up to guard a mosque on Friday.
The Mongrel Mob group are a well-known street gang for their violent clashes with rivals and police, their community projects, and their recognisable black leather uniform with British bulldog logo.
On Friday, members turned up outside the Jamia Masjid mosque in the North Island city of Hamilton and performed a haka before guarding worshippers as they entered. Their efforts were greeted by applause and cheers from locals.
“We were contacted by a representative who tagged me in and said some of our Muslim brothers and sisters have fears for Friday during their prayer,” said Waikato Mongrel Mob president Sonny Fatu.
“The question was posed whether we could be a part of the safety net for them to allow them to pray in peace without fear.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=8srBsNT9cvg&t=110s
“Of course we would do that, there is no question about that and we will be dressed appropriately.”
Friday also saw New Zealand prime minister Jacinda Ardern join thousands of well wishers outside Al Noor mosque in Christchurch, one of those attacked in the incident that left 50 people dead. Following the call to prayer, a two-minute silence was held in the memory of those who lost their life.
