Sri Lankan court convicts men for 2019 Easter Sunday bombings
A Colombo court concluded that a group of men participated in the coordinated Easter Sunday bombings that struck three churches and three hotels in 2019, killing hundreds and injuring many. One report says the verdict found fifteen defendants guilty of murder and terrorist conspiracy, while another report states that fourteen men were convicted, with nine acquitted and one receiving a lesser conviction. The attacks were linked to the Islamic State and also claimed the lives of foreign nationals.
Sentencing has not yet been announced, and a later hearing will determine the penalties. The convictions represent a major step in the legal response to Sri Lanka's deadliest terror attack.
How this was covered
- Coverage peaked at 8 outlets in a single hour
Why it matters
The verdict provides a measure of accountability for the 2019 bombings and signals the state's response to extremist violence.
How this story developed
- Sep 22 Sri Lankan court finds fifteen men guilty in 2019 Easter Sunday bombings
- Sep 23 Sentencing for the convicted individuals will be scheduled later.
