New Zealand Muslims condemn Brussels attacks

A Muslim sect in New Zealand is describing the attacks in Brussels as "heinous and utterly inhumane" and say it is not reflective of Islam in any way.

The Ahmadiyya Muslim Community in New Zealand have sent out a statement this morning condemning the "vicious attacks" in the Belgian capital last night (NZT).

The Ahmadis are not considered Muslims by mainstream followers of Islam and are a worldwide "reformist movement" in Islam.

Acting president of the New Zealand Ahmadi community, Mr Basharat Khan, said now is the time for people to work together.

"What we don't want is New Zealanders getting a skewed or incorrect image of what real Islam is, because true Islam condemns all types of violence towards innocent civilians.

"In a climate where words like 'Stop Islam' are trending on twitter, we know there's a long way to go to break down this misconception about Islam, but we welcome anyone who has any questions to get in touch, and even open the doors of our mosque in South Auckland to anyone that is interested in seeing what real Islam teaches."

World head of the Ahmadi movement - the Fifth Khalifa, His Holiness Hazrat Mirza Masroor Ahmad - said on behalf of the community he expresses his deepest sympathies and condolences to the Belgian people following the "barbaric terrorist attacks" that took place in Brussels.

"Such heinous and utterly inhumane attacks must be condemned in the strongest possible terms.

"Under no circumstances does Islam permit terrorism of any kind or the murder of innocent people. In fact, the Holy Quran has said that to kill even one innocent person is akin to killing all of mankind. Therefore, those who commit such atrocities in the name of Islam can never find any justification. They are defaming Islam and destroying the peace of the world."

He said the Ahmadi community's heartfelt prayers are with the victims of the attacks and all those who have been affected.

"May the perpetrators of this evil act be promptly brought to justice."