At least 138 people have reportedly been killed and more than 400 have been injured, according to Reuters news agency, after a series of bomb blasts hit a number of churches and hotels across Sri Lanka on Easter Sunday.
Three churches in Kochchikade, Negombo and Batticaloa were targeted as worshippers attended Easter services, one of the biggest dates in the Christian calendar.
In just one church, St. Sebastian’s in Katuwapitiya, more than 50 people had been killed, a police official told Reuters.
Meanwhile, the hotels targeted are among the most luxurious in the country’s capital: The Shangri La, Cinnamon Grand and Kingsbury.
Local media report that tourists may be among the casualties.
As yet, no group or organisation have claimed the attacks.
On Twitter, Finance Minister Mangala Samaraweera called the attacks “a well coordinated attempt to create murder, mayhem & anarchy.”
Sri Lankan Prime Minister Ranil Wickremesinghe put out a timely warning against the proliferation of fake reports or videos, saying: “I strongly condemn the cowardly attacks on our people today.
“I call upon all Sri Lankans during this tragic time to remain united and strong. Please avoid propagating unverified reports and speculation. The government is taking immediate steps to contain this situation.
This story is developing…
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