Christchurch terror attack ‘gunman’ Brenton Tarrant whinges he’s being mistreated in prison as he’s not allowed visitors or phone calls
NEW Zealand mosque gunman Brenton Tarrant has lodged a formal complaint about his treatment in prison, it's been reported.
The 28-year-old is being held in isolation at Auckland Prison in Paremoremo charged with one count of murder following the atrocity which left 50 dead.
The Australian terrorist has reportedly moaned to the authorities he has been denied all access to visitors and phone calls.
He was flown to the country's toughest jail immediately after his first court appearance, in Christchurch the day after the attacks on March 15.
complained to the Department of Corrections to moan he is being deprived of his basic rights, specifically phone calls and access to visitors.
A Department of Corrections source said: "He's under constant observation and isolation. He doesn't get the usual minimum entitlements. So no phone calls and no visits."
Under New Zealand prison regulations, inmates can expect one 30 minute visit a week and at least one telephone call along with sufficient nutrition, healthcare and exercise.
According to the Department of Corrections website, "prisoners have the right to be treated with humanity, dignity and respect while in prison".
However, the department can apply exceptions under certain circumstances "for purposes of security, good order, or safety, or for the purpose of protective custody".
Tarrant is accused of storming the Al Noor Mosque in Christchurch during Friday prayers and opening fire, leaving 41 dead.
Cops say he then drove for around seven minutes to a mosque in Linwood Avenue where he shot dead more victims - bringing the total death toll to 50.
He was arrested and dragged from his car, which was rigged with two bombs, while on his way to slaughter more victims in Christchurch.
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In the wake of the slaughter, New Zealand banned all "military style" semi-automatic weapons and assault rifles.
Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern unveiled the stronger gun laws and said they are expected to be fully in place in three weeks time.
She announced that high-capacity magazines and semi-automatic weapons like those used in the terrorist atrocity would be banned effective immediately.
