THERE is no greater risk to people in the West Midlands in the wake of the New Zealand attacks according to West Midlands Police.

The death toll in the attacks on two mosques in Christchurch overnight currently stands at 49 and right wing terrorists are being blamed for the shootings.

West Midlands Police assistant chief constable, Matt Ward, said: “We are shocked by the tragic news of the New Zealand terror attack and our sympathies are with those affected at this time.

“We appreciate that our local communities may have concerns however I would like to reassure you that there is no increased threat to the people of the West Midlands.

“If any families are directly affected by the attack, West Midlands Police is ready to support in any way we can.

“Officers will be engaging with key religious buildings today to reassure local people. We will continue to work closely together and unite against those who seek, through violence and extremism, to intimidate or cause fear.

“For us the focus now is the protection of those we serve in the West Midlands. As we are all very aware we face a sustained and determined threat to our security.

“As always we ask our communities to be vigilant and report any suspicious activity to the Anti-Terror Hotline on 0800 789 321, in an emergency dial 999.”