A judicial probe into Christchurch mosque shootings, in which 51 worshipers died, began today.

The royal commission, the most powerful judicial probe available under New Zealand law will examine events leading up to the March 15 attack in which a lone gunman opened fire after entering two mosques killing dozens, that shocked the world.

Jointly headed by Supreme Court Judge William Young and former diplomat Jacqui Caine, the probe panel is to ascertain whether New Zealand’s police and intelligence services could have prevented the attacks.

It is due to report its findings by December 10.

Australian Brenton Tarrant, a self-avowed white supremacist, has been charged over the attacks and is currently undergoing psychiatric testing to determine if he is mentally fit to stand trial.