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Sri Lankan blasts death toll rises to 160 amid reports of more attacks

(With SEC-INDIA-BLASTS-CASUALTIES) NEW DELHI, April 21 (KUNA) -- The toll in the deadly blasts targeting churches and five star hotels in the Sri Lankan capital Colombo and other cities rose to 160 while more than 400 others were injured amid reports that two more attacks took place in the suburb of Orugodawatta and the city of Dehiwala.
Quoting sources in Sri Lanka, All India Radio reported that the increase came after an eighth attack rocked the island nation as details of the two attacks emerged.
The Defence Ministry imposed a curfew with immediate effect as the authorities asked people to remain alert and announced a two-day holiday for schools, universities and educational institutions.
According to reports the first two blasts occurred at St Anthony's Church in Colombo and St Sebastian's Church at Katuwapitiya in Negombo, while a third church in the town of Batticaloa was also targeted at around 0845 local time as worshippers gathered for Easter Mass.
Three hotels located in Colombo, including Cinnamon Grand Hotel, the Shangri-La and the Kingsbury were also targeted.
Authorities have tightened security at Bandaranaike International Airport while the government held an emergency meeting to discuss the situation and take necessary steps.
Sri Lankan Prime Minister Ranil Wickremesinghe condemned the attack as "cowardly" urging his people to come together at this tragic time.
"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.
"The government is taking immediate steps to contain this situation," he said. (end) atk.sd