Sri Lanka: Minor explosion reported in Pugoda April 25

Event

Police sources reported a minor explosion in Pugoda (Western province) on Thursday, April 25. The source of the explosion, which reportedly occurred in an empty lot near the court building, is unknown as of 09:45 (local time) on Thursday. No injuries or damage was reported. It is unclear if there is any connection between the explosion and the April 21 Easter bombings.

Context

A series of coordinated bombings struck Sri Lanka on Easter Sunday (April 21), killing at least 359 people and left another 500 wounded. The government implemented a state of emergency and a number of security measures, including curfews, limited access to social media, and checkpoints. At least 60 people have been arrested in connection to the bombings.

Advice

Individuals in Sri Lanka are advised to monitor developments to the situation, anticipate heightened security measures and limited telecommunication and social media access, report any suspicious behavior or objects to the police, and adhere to all instructions issued by local authorities and their home governments.