Sri Lanka: Eighth explosion reported in Colombo area April 21 /update 5

Event

An eighth explosion was reported around 14:50 (local time) on Sunday, April 21, in the Dematagoda area of Colombo. The blast comes shortly after another device detonated at a small hotel near the Dehiwala Zoological Garden. Security forces have deployed into the area and the Zoological Garden has been temporarily cordoned off. A heightened security presence is expected near all blast sites.

Security measures have been increased throughout the country following a series of six bombing at three churches and three hotels earlier in the day. An island-wide overnight curfew will be in effect from 18:00 until 06:00 on Monday, April 22, and will likely be in place over the coming days. Social media and messaging services are also reportedly being blocked throughout the country by the authorities. Additional security personnel have been deployed at Colombo’s Bandaranaike International Airport (CMB) and departing passengers are being advised to arrive at least four hours before the departure time. Visitor lobbies at the departing and arrival terminals have also been closed. Recovery efforts are ongoing at blast sites in Colombo, Negombo, and Batticaloa.

Context

A series of coordinated bombings occurred at approximately 08:45 on Sunday morning. At least 160 people have been killed and another 370 have been wounded in the attacks. In Colombo, devices detonated at St. Anthony’s Church, the Shangri La Hotel, Cinnamon Grand Hotel, and the Kingsbury Hotel. St. Sebestian’s Church in Negombo and the Zion Church in Batticaloa were also targeted in the attacks. No group has immediately claimed responsibility for the attacks.

Advice

Individuals in Sri Lanka, particularly in the abovementioned areas, 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.

Travelers flying to or from CMB are advised to anticipate a heightened security presence, anticipate possible delays, and allow additional time to pass through security checkpoints