Canada PM condemns Quebec City mosque shootout

Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau has condemned the attack by three gunmen inside a Quebec City mosque that left five people dead.

"We condemn this terrorist attack on Muslims in a centre of worship and refuge," Trudeau said in a statement issued after the incident.

"It was with tremendous shock, sadness and anger that I heard of this evening's tragic and fatal shooting at the Centre culturel islamique de Quebec located in the Ste-Foy neighbourhood of the city of Quebec," he added.

Prime Minister Trudeau expressed his deepest condolences to the family and friends of all those who had died, and wished a speedy recovery to those who have been injured.

He said it was heart-wrenching to see such senseless violence, adding that authorities are still investigating the incident.

Trudeau asserted that diversity is strength of the country and religious tolerance is a value that as Canadians hold precious.

"Muslim-Canadians are an important part of our national fabric, and these senseless acts have no place in our communities, cities and country," he said.

Trudeau assured that the Canadian law enforcement agencies will protect the rights of all Canadians, and will make every effort to apprehend the perpetrators of this act and all acts of intolerance.

"Tonight, we grieve with the people of Ste-Foy and all Canadians," he said.

At least five people were killed and several others injured after three attackers opened fire inside the Quebec City mosque.

The Guardian quoted witnesses as saying that the shooting took place during evening prayers at the Quebec City Islamic Cultural Center.

According to Radio Canada, the police have arrested two suspects.

Security was beefed up around the site of the incident.