SRI LANKA, April 21, 2019 (Gephardt Daily) — At least 156 people have been killed and more than 500 are reported injured after a series of coordinated bombings at churches and luxury hotels throughout Sri Lanka.
Sri Lankan security officials report eight explosions occurred almost simultaneously at four churches and four hotels in and around the capital city of Colombo while Easter services were underway.
Sri Lankan MP Harsha de Silva released a statement on social media saying emergency facilities were being overwhelmed and it appeared foreigners were among those targeted in the attacks. Americans, Dutch, and British nationals were reported among the casualties.
Sunday’s targets included: St. Anthony’s Church, Kochchikade Church, St. Sebastian’s Church, and Katuwapitiya Church in Batticaloa.
The Kingsbury Hotel Shangri-La, Hotel Cinnamon, and the Grand Hotel were also attacked.
Witnesses told authorities at least two of the bombings were carried out by suicide bombers.
Sri Lanka’s Prime Minister strongly condemned “the cowardly attacks” and urged the people to be calm.
“I call upon all Sri Lankans during this tragic time to remain united and strong,” wrote Prime Minister Ranil Wickremesinghe. “Please avoid propagating unverified reports and speculation. The government is taking steps to contain this situation.”
