Death Toll over 300 in Sri Lanka Easter Attacks

  • The US and India had warned the Sri Lankan government of a planned attack weeks before this Easter terror attacks

  • Over 300 death and many hundreds more wounded

  • Attacks intensify on Christian communities in countries with a majority Muslim population

Colombo, Apr.22.– The death toll continues to rise with over 300 people dead as of Monday afternoon and around 500 others who were injured in eight coordinated attacks on churches and hotels in Sri Lanka on Easter Sunday. Among the deceased were 39 tourists, including American citizens.

A government investigator says seven suicide bombers were behind the eight coordinated attacks that killed at least 290 people and injured 500 more across the island nation yesterday. Although no one has claimed responsibility for the violence — the deadliest since the end of Sri Lanka’s civil war a decade ago — police say a militant group named National Thowfeek Jama'ath was behind the attacks.

Will there be political consequences? Sunday’s attacks could boost opposition leader and ex-President Mahinda Rajapaksa, while some predict they’ll lead to calls for more heavy-handed rule.

Authorities had intelligence the terrorists planned to target churches with suicide attacks, according to reports, though it appears that nothing was done about it. Many suspect the organization had outside help, which enabled them to carry off coordinated bombings on opposite sides of the country. At least 24 people are in custody in relation to the attacks.
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