Colombo [Sri Lanka]: At least 25 people were reportedly killed in multiple bomb blasts near several churches and five-star hotels here on Easter Sunday, the state media said.
Quoting police, Colombo Page reported that blasts occurred in five places including St. Anthony’s Church in Kochchikade, St. Anthony’s Church in Negombo, St. Sebastian’s Church in Katuwapitiya and Zion Church in Batticaloa.
Explosions also took place near Kingsbury, Shangri-La and Cinnamon Grand Hotels in Colombo around 8:45 a.m. (local time).
According to Colombo Page, more than 80 people who were injured in the blast have been shifted to the Colombo National Hospital.
The police further urged the public to stay indoors and not to gather at the explosion sites.
Sri Lankan Minister of Economic Reforms, Harsha de Silva confirmed that there were many casualties including foreigners.
Meanwhile, External Affairs Minister Sushma Swaraj said that she is in “constant touch” with the Indian High Commissioner in Colombo”.
“We are keeping a close watch on the situation,” she tweeted.
Colombo – I am in constant touch with Indian High Commissioner in Colombo. We are keeping a close watch on the situation. @IndiainSL
— Sushma Swaraj (@SushmaSwaraj) April 21, 2019
High Commission of India in Colombo has floated helpline numbers for Indian citizens in need of assistance and for seeking clarification.
The numbers are: +94777903082, +94112422788, +94112422789, +94777902082 and +94772234176
[source_without_link]ANI[/source_without_link]