Three killed, eight injured in stampede during coronavirus aid distribution in Sri Lanka

At least three women were killed and eight others injured in a stampede on Thursday when a large number of people gathered at the residence of a wealthy businessman who was distributing cash to the families affected by the coronavirus lockdown.

A large number of people gathered at the businessman's house in Central Colombo's Maligawatta area violating the COVID-19 lockdown curfew.

The Muslim businessman was distributing Rs 5,000 to each person in the gathering, who lost their livelihood in the coronavirus crisis, to mark the 27th day of the Ramzan fast.

Police said at least six people have been arrested.

Sri Lanka, which has reported over 1,000 COVID-19 cases and nine deaths, eased the lockdown rules allowing businesses and offices to re-open while complying with health regulations.