Facebook's response after New Zealand gunman live-streams shootings on platform

The footage was posted on the Facebook page of Brenton Tarrant

Facebook has responded quickly after one of the New Zealand gunmen live-streamed a shooting at a mosque.

Brenton Tarrant broadcast the horrific event live on Facebook using a GoPro camera.

Speaking to Mirror Online, Facebook said it has removed the footage, and is also removing ‘praise or support’ posts for the shootings.

Mia Garlick, a spokeswoman for Facebook New Zealand, said: “Our hearts go out to the victims, their families and the community affected by this horrendous act.

“New Zealand Police alerted us to a video on Facebook shortly after the livestream commenced and we quickly removed both the shooter’s Facebook and Instagram accounts and the video.

“We're also removing any praise or support for the crime and the shooter or shooters as soon as we’re aware.

“We will continue working directly with New Zealand Police as their response and investigation continues.”

In its Community Standards, Facebook outlines its exact policy regarding graphic content, as well as dangerous individuals.

There, it explains: “We do not allow any organisations or individuals that proclaim a violent mission or are engaged in violence, from having a presence on Facebook.”

For this reason, Mr Tarrant’s page has also now been deleted.

As well as Facebook, YouTube has also confirmed that it will remove all footage uploaded to its platform.

A statement on Twitter said: “Our hearts are broken over today's terrible tragedy in New Zealand.

"Please know we are working vigilantly to remove any violent footage."