Sri Lanka: At least five explosions reported nationwide April 21 /update 1

Event

At least three churches and two hotels have reportedly been targeted in bombings across Sri Lanka on the morning (local time) of Sunday, April 21, mostly in the capital Colombo. According to initial reports, bombs exploded at St. Anthony’s Church in Colombo and St. Sebestian’s Church in Negombo around 08:45 during Easter celebrations. Another church in Batticaloa may also have been targeted. The Shangri La Hotel and another hotel in Colombo were also reportedly attacked. Local media sources have reported multiple casualties, but official figures have been released as of 10:20. A heightened security presence is expected around all blast sites. Details are still emerging.

Advice

Individuals in Sri Lanka, particularly in Colombo, are advised to monitor developments to the situation, avoid all blast areas as a precaution, report any suspicious objects or behavior to the police, and obey all instructions issued by the authorities.