Sri Lanka Blasts: Twitterati Condole Attack on Churches and Hotels on Easter Sunday, Prays for Those Affected
Following the incident, security has been tightened in Sri Lanka and India.
On the occasion of Easter, blasts occurred at three churches and three hotels in Sri Lanka's capital city, Colombo. People had gathered in churches for Easter celebrations on Sunday when the incident occurred. According to Sri Lankan media, more than 25 people have died and over 200 are injured. As details on the incident come in, social media has been filled with tweets condemning the attack. Messages of condolences are also pouring in for Sri Lankans from across the world on Twitter.
Churches which witnessed the blasts are Kochikade Church, Katuwapitiya Church and a church in Batticaloa. Five-star hotels that were affected in the explosions include Shangri-La Hotel, Cinnamon Grand Hotel and Kingsbury Hotel. Injured were immediately rushed to nearby hospitals. Serial Blasts In Sri Lanka on Easter Sunday, Churches And Hotels Hit; Nearly 25 People Dead, Over 200 Rushed to Hospital.
Check out the Twitter reactions below:
Meanwhile, a helpline number has been issued for Indians trying to contact their people in Sri Lanka. The Indian embassy in Sri Lanka has tweeted out helpline numbers.
Check out the tweet below:
Soon after the blasts, police confirmed the attacks.
According to the reports, high-end hotels were targeted in quick succession following the churches.
We hope loved ones of those affected in the blasts gets enough strength to go through the tough situation.
The explosions reportedly occurred around 8:45 am local time; the nature of the blasts are not immediately clear.
High security in currently in place in the country.
In Sri Lanka, an emergency security council meeting has been called to review the attacks.
External Affairs Minister of Sushma Swaraj reacted to the incident. Swaraj tweeted saying, "I am in constant touch with Indian High Commissioner in Colombo. We are keeping a close watch on the situation."
Check out the tweet below:
According to AFP, an official at the Batticaloa hospital said that more than 300 people have been affected in the blasts. Following the incident, security has been tightened in Sri Lanka and India. Most injured in the blasts were staying in hotels. So far, no terror groups have claimed responsibility for the attacks.
(The above story first appeared on LatestLY on Apr 21, 2019 11:59 AM IST. For more news and updates on politics, world, sports, entertainment and lifestyle, log on to our website latestly.com).