Sri Lanka had declared curfew after eight devastating blasts at Colombo on Sunday. Eight simultaneous blasts rocked the country on Easter. The first six blasts occurred at three churches and three five-star hotels during Easter mass. These were the first major attacks since the end of the civil war 10 years ago.

According to local reports, the blasts occurred in hotels and churches in different parts of the country at around 8.45 am (local time) as the Easter Sunday masses were in progress at churches.

Defense Minister Ruwan Wijewardena, who described the blasts as a terrorist attack by religious extremists, told reporters Sunday evening that seven suspects had been arrested, though no one immediately claimed responsibility for the blasts.

 Prime Minister Ranil Wickremesinghe said he feared the violence could trigger instability in the country and its economy. He appealed on his twitter saying – “I strongly condemn the cowardly attacks on our people today. I call upon all Sri Lankans during this tragic time to remain united and strong. Please avoid propagating unverified reports and speculation. The government is taking immediate steps to contain this situation.”

Media reported 25 people to be killed in an attack at a church in Batticaloa in the Eastern Province.  “Most of the blasts appear to have been suicide bombings,” State Minister of Defence Ruwan Wijewardene has told at a press conference.

At least eight foreign nationals were confirmed dead by Sunday evening, while 27 others who were found dead, probably are foreigners and their nationalities are yet to be declared by the Ministry.