CHRISTCHURCH, New Zealand, March 15 (Xinhua) -- At least six people were killed in a shooting incident at Masjid Al Noor mosque in central Christchurch in New Zealand on Friday afternoon, local media reported.

It is reported that a gunman opened fire inside the mosque full of prayers in Christchurch during afternoon praying time. The Bangladesh cricket team was about to enter the mosque when the shooting occurred, so the team members fled safely.

Witnesses described that there were blood and several people lying on the ground.

Local media also reported another shooting at a second mosque in a Christchurch suburb.

Armed police have been deployed to secure the places and hunt for shooters. They urged local people to stay indoor. Local schools are also locked down.

"Police are responding with its full capability to manage the situation, but the risk environment remains extremely high," police said in a statement.

More casualties are feared as the situation is evolving.