Death toll passes 200 following bombings in Sri Lanka

Photo: Reuters

The death toll in Sri Lanka has surpassed 200 following bomb blasts at three churches and four hotels in Sri Lanka on Easter Sunday.

Police officials say more than 450 other people were wounded in the first major attack on the Indian Ocean island since the end of a civil war a decade ago.

Seven people were arrested and three police officers were killed during a security forces raid on a house in the Sri Lankan capital several hours after the attacks, some of which officials said were suicide bombs.

There have been no immediate claims of responsibility for the attacks.

While addressing tens of thousands of people in St. Peter’s Square, Pope Francis said: “I wish to express my affectionate closeness to the Christian community, hit while it was gathered in prayer, and to all the victims of such cruel violence.”

Prime Minister Justin Trudeau took to social media today saying: “Absolutely horrific news from Sri Lanka. Canada strongly condemns the heinous attacks on Christians at churches and hotels. Our hearts & thoughts are with the families & loved ones of those killed and all those injured.”

Ontario Premier Doug Ford said on Twitter: “My heart and my prayers are with the victims and their families in Sri Lanka following the horrific attacks targeting Christian worshippers this Easter Sunday.