The latest updates on Easter Sunday's bombings in Sri Lanka revealed that the explosions across hotels in churches recorded at least 290 deaths so far. Around 500 others are injured while 24 people have been arrested for in relation to the bombings, officials said.
According to CNN, local officials referred to the suicide bombings as a "brand-new type of terrorism." While no group has claimed responsibility for the explosions yet, Sri Lanka's Defense Minister, Ruwan Wijewardene, said the incidents appear to have been carried out by terrorists who promote "religious extremism."
A leaked memo that police received warnings of a potential attack by the Nations Thawahid Jaman (NTJ) was released to the media on Sunday evening. However, Sri Lankan Prime Minister said he did not receive information about the warning.
It is worth noting that no confirmation has been made on whether the alleged warning from NTJ is connected to the bombings. Dhruva Jaishankar, a fellow in Foreign Policy Studies at Brookings India, stressed that conclusions shouldn't be made yet.
According to Dhruva, Mohomad Saharan-led group NTJ may not be capable of executing such sophisticated and well-planned bombing spree without assistance or support from a bigger terrorist group.
World leaders have rallied to denounce the bombings. British Prime Minister Theresa May said the attacks were "truly appalling" while New Zealand's Prime Minister, Jacinda Ardern, said her country condemns all terroristic acts.
Pakistan's chief, Imran Khan, and Indian Prime Minister, Narendra Modi, said they will support Sri Lanka following the terror attacks. U.S. President Donald Trump said his country will offer help to those affected.
Pope Francis has also called on the world to pray for Sri Lanka as it overcomes the "cruel violence" that were laid out while people attended Easter masses in churches and others vacationed during the Holy Week weekend.
While most of the victims were local Sri Lankans, dozens of foreigners have also fallen victim to the bombings that are considered the worst yet since the civil war ended a decade ago.
In response to the potential security threat and fears of follow-up explosions, authorities have imposed a new curfew in the Colombo area. Sri Lankan Health Minister Rajitha Senarathne said authorities were aware that such attacks could take place during the Easter season.
Sri Lankan President Maithripala Sirisena has appointed a committee to spearhead the investigations on the bombings. The panel will be led by retired Supreme Court Judge Vijith Malalgoda.
On Monday morning, most of the shops in the Colombo area were closed as swarms of soldiers and police patrolled the area. People have been advised to stay indoors as investigations push through.
