Sri Lankan President warns against rumours and false stories while promising stern action against the terror masterminds

Sri Lanka’s President Maithripla Sirisena has sent out his first message after the serial blasts in Colombo killed at least 156 people, according to agency reports.

“I have given instructions to take very stern action against the persons who are responsible for this conspiracy,” the President said and added that all required steps have been taken to fulfill the responsibilities as a government, according to the state-run daily.

President Sirisena appealed to the nation to act with utmost restraint and patience, and not to be misled by baseless rumours and false stories. He also urged the people to extend unstinted support and cooperation to the government for the steps taken at this trying occasion.

The Sri Lankan Prime Minister Ranil Wickremesinghe has reportedly called for an emergency cabinet meeting in the wake of the attacks. The Sri Lankan Army has deployed 200 troops to advert further damages.

Hundreds of worshipers gathered at the St. Anthony's Church in Kochchikade, Kotahena, St. Sebastian's Church in Katuwapitiya in Katana, and the Zion church in Batticaloa to commemorate Easter Sunday, at the time of the explosions. The other three blasts where reported at the Shangri-La, Cinnamon Grand and Kingsbury five-star hotels in Colombo.